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Four Days In Marrakech Itinerary: Best Things To Do In The Red City

Adventure Travel , Africa , Morocco , Travel | May 4, 2018

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Marrakech has been on my wish list of travel destinations ever since it started getting some serious attention from Instagrammers. I know, I hate me too .

I spent four days in Marrakech in search of pretty riads, red city walls and luxurious textiles, but found so much more.

Despite soaring to the top of the world’s bucket list in recent years, Marrakech has retained so much of its own unique character.

I expected its medina to be jam-packed with tourists and emitting a faint whiff of inauthenticity, but instead I found myself rubbing shoulders mainly with locals.

I expected the hassle from vendors to be almost unbearable, but the reality was completely manageable.

And I expected to be slightly disappointed because I’d built Marrakech up so much in my head that it couldn’t possibly be  that  good – but happily, I wasn’t let down at all.

Here, I’ve created a four day Marrakech itinerary to help you have the best possible trip.

Having spent time in Morocco working remotely and exploring, I’ve put together the ultimate four day Marrakech itinerary for visitors, with a day-by-day plan that will make sure you fit in all the top things to do in Marrakech, plus as many tips as I could gather during my time there.

Head to the bottom of this post for accommodation recommendations and other Morocco travel tips, including ideas for things to do if you have five, six or seven days in Marrakech.

Hope it helps you plan your holiday in Marrakech!

If you’re travelling to Marrakech alone, check out my post about solo female travel safety in Morocco .

The ultimate Marrakech itinerary

Watch my full Marrakech travel vlog on Youtube

Your four day Marrakech itinerary at a glance

Day 1 in Marrakech: Souks and Djemaa el-Fna

Day 2 in marrakech itinerary: culture and history, day 3 in marrakech: the scents of the city, day 4 in marrakech itinerary: pamper or adrenalin activities you decide, days 5, 6, 7 and beyond: day trips from marrakech, multi-day tours from marrakech, what to eat and drink in marrakech, average prices in marrakech, where to stay in marrakech, how to get to marrakech.

If you’re wondering how long to spend in Marrakech, I’d say three or four days is enough time to see most of Marrakech’s highlights, but I wholeheartedly recommend taking more time if possible.

Just like New York City, this is one of those destinations whose best and most intriguing traits are found on the ground: just strolling through its streets at different times of the day and night to see what you can find.

But if you don’t have the time to take it slow? Here’s how to make the best possible use of four days in Marrakech.

Start the morning the Moroccan way: with a mint tea or continental breakfast at one of the pavement cafes near Djemaa el-Fna (the main square).

Do some people-watching, get a feel for Marrakech’s vibe and gather yourself as you prepare to throw yourself into its vortex.

You may as well jump straight into the heart of Marrakech with a morning visit to the medina’s treasure trove of souks. No Marrakech itinerary would be complete without a visit!

If you go early in the day, the hustle and bustle is less overwhelming and there are fewer crowds (and hassle). 

Follow rue Semarine or rue Mouassine into the markets’ heart. The latter path is the less hectic of the two options.

It can definitely be a bit intimidating, and I know many travellers prefer to book a short souk tour with a local to help them find their feet. The one I’ve linked has great reviews.

You’ll pass live chickens clucking away next to their mid-slaughter mates, pile upon pile of jewel-toned textiles, colourful ceramics in every pattern you can dream of, bucketfuls of heady spices and cubicles dripping in trinkets and charms.

The Marrakech souks are a journey into the city’s past. You can’t go without spending some time getting lost in the medina’s fibrous labyrinth.

Marrakech is the only place I’ve ever bothered to shop on my travels, because it feels like a cultural activity.

My advice, if you’re after bargains, is to use the first morning as a taster session and dive back in towards the end of your trip in the evening, when you’ve got a better idea of what’s on offer (and the vendors are a bit more eager to close a sale).

It’s not often I list shopping as a fun local activity, but haggling in the souk is one of the most memorable things to do in Marrakech!

If you can find your way there from the clutches of the maze, get lunch at Bazaar Cafe , Atay Cafe (a rooftop cafe) or go all-out and order a camel burger at Cafe Clock .

It’s not hard to spot the minaret of Koutoubia Mosque , the most famous in the city. Non-Muslims can’t enter but the grand building serves as an orientation point that will help you get around the city – and its exterior is beautiful to look at.

The name is based on the Arabic word  koutoubiyyin , which means ‘bookseller’, because once upon a time, the area around the mosque was filled with booksellers.

It’s not the biggest mosque you’ll ever see, but it’s the biggest in Marrakech and a rule stating that no nearby building may be taller than a palm tree keeps it looking stately in the red city’s skyline.

As the sun sets on your first night in Marrakech, head back to the main square. Night time is when it really comes to life, with snake charmers, shoe shiners and berber musicians all contributing to the carnival-like atmosphere. Steer clear of the monkeys on chains though, obviously.

For dinner, Nomads is the instagrammers’ favoured rooftop restaurant. I preferred their sister restaurant, Cafe Des Epices .

The view on the rooftop is great but the portions are small. You might need to go elsewhere for dessert! I recommend one of the French crêperies.

Alternatively, book a nighttime street food tour for an authentic taste of Marrakech.

On your second day in Marrakech, enjoy breakfast at Gastro MK at Maison MK .

You should now have a good idea of the city’s pace, and you’ll possibly want a little respite from it. Day two in Marrakech is a great time to take a guided half-day tour of the city’s historic attractions .

Prefer to explore on your own terms? Follow my itinerary for a day of culture and history in Marrakech below.

First, head towards the Kasbah Mosque , which dates back to 1100, and find your way into the tranquil, opulent Saadian Tombs of Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi. It’s one of the top Marrakech attractions today.

These tombs actually lay hidden behind thick walls for years and were rediscovered in 1917 thanks to aerial photography. They’re made from carved Italian marble and pure gold, so they’re an impressive sight.

Cat lovers will find feline friends all over Marrakech, but there was a particularly cute kitten at the tombs posing for tourists!

From there, head to Bahia Palace . Its name means ‘brilliance’ in Arabic and it certainly is a sight to behold, with courtyards filled with fragrant plants, gleaming mosaics and carved columns. The blue and yellow grand courtyard is particularly impressive.

At only 10 MAD for entry, this is so worth visiting, even if just for some interior inspo for your future home.

I was wowed by a lot of Marrakech’s historical buildings but didn’t feel there was a lot of information for visitors so more discerning travellers might like to book a tour of the historical sites in order to learn more.

Head back towards the Saadian Tombs for lunch at  Kasbah Cafe . Their rooftop terrace gives you a perfect vantage point and place to shelter from the midday sun.

This would be the time to see Ben Youssef Madrasa , an old Islamic college. It’s one of the most picturesque attractions in Marrakech – but I wouldn’t know, because it was closed for refurbishment during my Marrakech trip.

If you still haven’t had your culture fill, pay a visit to Musée de Marrakech . 

This museum doesn’t have any English descriptions so most of the artefacts are still a mystery to me, but the Mnebhi Palace itself is jaw-dropping. The 50 MAD entry fee is worth paying for this alone!

I stood near the door to take it all in and every single person who entered let out an awed exclamation as they got their first glimpse of its beauty.

Next, walk for three minutes towards La Maison de la Photographie . It’s only small but this photography museum’s collection offers some insight into Marrakech’s past from 1870 to 1960. Plus, the building is beautiful and there’s a lovely little rooftop cafe.

As night falls, enjoy dinner with a bellydancing show at Le Narwama restaurant.

My itinerary for the second day  in Marrakech is packed but completely do-able, I promise! You can obviously stretch it out over two days if you have more time.

They stink and are generally unpleasant, but Marrakech’s tanneries are still an interesting sight to see. Go in the morning, when work is in full swing and the smell of animal hides isn’t quite so pungent.

Keep walking away from the main action from Bab Debbagh and let your nostrils lead you.

A word of warning about the tanneries: you will be targeted by scammers, but don’t let online reviews put you off, if it’s something you’re keen to see.

The tanneries are about a ten minute walk from the House of Photography, and I just pointedly ignored every single person who approached me. When one man tried to take charge and lead me into a tannery, I immediately walked back out because I knew he’d later try to get money from me for his ‘guide services’.

You don’t need to pay anyone: just walk in, take a look and get out. Apparently, some of the shopkeepers will let you onto their terraces for an aerial view if you buy something, but I didn’t try this.

You won’t want to hang around the tanneries long, trust me. Refresh with a freshly squeezed orange juice from one of the many stalls in Djemaa el-Fna. It should cost no more than 4MAD.

As the afternoon heat rises, pay a visit to Jardin Majorelle , fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent’s gift to the city.

It costs 70 MAD (or 100 if you want to see the museum too). Expect to queue and know that you won’t have the place to yourself, but these art deco gardens are a tranquil oasis with lotus-filled ponds shrouded in greenery and a striking museum taking pride of place.

It took 40 years to paint these gardens and the electric blue building they hide is a striking contrast to Marrakech’s usual dusty pinks, while the abundance of cacti is a nod to the desert around you.

There’s a museum here, but I didn’t pay the extra cash to enter.

Later in the day, take a Moroccan cookery class to learn all about the country’s aromatic cuisine. Some of the classes include a guided visit to the souks to pick up the spices you’ll be using, so this is a full-circle Moroccan experience.

Hardy travellers stuff out of the way, now it’s time to indulge in some pampering, the Moroccan way. If you’re staying in a riad, I highly recommend just spending some time relaxing in its courtyard.

Most riads don’t let you in unless you’re a guest, but we managed to wangle our way into El Fenn for a cup of tea. We also accidentally fell into Dar Marjana , which was magical.

I didn’t actually get to do this, but visiting a hammam is one of the most relaxing – and cultural – experiences you can have in Marrakech.

The most popular hammams are   Les Bains de Marrakech , Heritage Spa , and the super-local hidden gem  Kennaria Hammam – so local in fact, it doesn’t even have a website. If you’re the type to plan ahead, you can book a spa and hammam experience online .

Feeling fancy? La Mamounia is the luxury must-see in Marrakech. If you can’t afford to stay there but still want to experience it, try booking in for a meal – or fork out for a spa day pass, which costs 500MAD per person.

Apparently, they’re funny about people taking pictures there, so I didn’t bother – but like, how do the Instagram Girls do it?

If you prefer high-speed adventures to pamper parties, try a quad biking adventure in the desert or do a dune-bashing tour in a buggy .

Four days in Marrakech should give you enough time to do a full day or half day desert trip.

If you want to get out of Marrakech and see more of Morocco during your four day trip, I highly recommend spending a day in Essaouira, which is just three hours from Marrakech.

Read my guide to one day in Essaouira to help you plan your day trip, and book a guided trip here .

If you have more than four days there and want to see more of Morocco from your base in Marrakech, some of the best day trips from Marrakech are Ouzoud Waterfalls , the Atlas Mountains , Agadir (for surfing), and of course a trip to the desert –  this tour takes you quad biking through the palm groves.

Check out more of the most popular multi-day tours from Marrakech below.

3-day safari tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

3-Day Sahara tour to the Erg Chebbi Dunes

3-Day desert tour to Fes

3-day tour from Marrakech to the blue city of Chefchaouen with stops in Fez, the most traditional city in Morocco, Rabat and Casablanca

2-Day Zagora desert camp trip

2-Day Mount Toubkal Trek

Essential info for your Morocco trip

Moroccan food is delicious. Be sure to sample all of the local delicacies: bubbling kefta tagines served with freshly baked bread, cous cous, salty olives, and French pastries from the many boulangeries .

And of course, you can’t go to Marrakech without sipping mint tea everywhere you go. They use a  lot  of sugar. Be warned!

The cost of food and drink in Marrakech varies depending on which part of the city you’re in.

In Gueliz, I got a continental breakfast with freshly squeezed orange juice and a hot drink for 25MAD. I paid more than that amount for an orange juice alone at a rooftop terrace near Djemaa el-Fna square. However you can pick up a delicious orange juice from a cart in the square for 4MAD.

Basically, you pay for comfort and location! In a typical restaurant in Marrakech, a tagine costs around 75MAD.

Bottled water costs around 5MAD for a 1.5litre bottle. I didn’t drink the tap water in Marrakech, but brushed my teeth with it and had zero issues.

Obviously, the best type of accommodation in Marrakech is a traditional riad. I feel I should put a disclaimer here: because I was in Marrakech for work, I actually stayed in the modern part of the city.

I’d 100% stay in a riad when I go back to Marrakech though, because I feel like I missed out on an important part of Moroccan culture.

Some of the most popular (Instagram-worthy) riads in Marrakech are  Le Riad Yasmin , Riad BE , El Fenn , Riad Jardin Secret and La Sultana . Basically, when I post from one of these riads, you’ll know I’ve made it in life.

If you want luxury accommodation in Marrakech, there’s no place for it other than La Mamounia.

On a budget? You can still find cheap but traditional rids in Marrakech. Riad Tizwa has double rooms starting from £45 per night,  Dar Attajmil starts at £65 and  Riad Berbère starts at £60.

Search all Marrakech accommodation 

You can fly from major UK airports to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK). The Arrivals Hall is fancier than Dubai’s! I booked a private car transfer from the airport to my accommodation, which made my arrival stress-free.

My advice is to look out for cheap flights to Morocco on Skyscanner .

You’ll need travel insurance for visiting Morocco. I recommend using World Nomads .

Travelling around Morocco? The Lonely Planet Guide is bound to help. WiFi isn’t great in some parts, so a paper book is always handy!

Use my Travel Resources page to find the best deals on your Morocco trip

I hope you found this four day Marrakech guide useful! I definitely want to go back to Morocco one day in the near future and stay in a riad. I left with an excellent impression of the city and felt much safer as a solo female traveller than I actually expected. You can read my guide to visiting Marrakech as a solo female traveller if you’re hesitant.

I filmed a little vlog during my time in Marrakech, which you can watch over on my Youtube channel .

Please follow While I’m Young on  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  from more updates from the UK and beyond. You can also  subscribe to my newsletter  to make sure you never miss a post.

Ryan Biddulph says

May 4, 2018 at 10:48 am

Gotta love those souks Dannielle! So much fun strolling through, snapping a few images here and there, and enjoying the scene. I reckon those tanneries are rough! Middle Eastern spots can be intense. Definitely a change up from the West. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Sam | North East Family Fun Travel Blog says

May 4, 2018 at 11:18 am

Wow Dannielle you packed so much into your trip. Your photos are absolutely STUNNING! I am sad to say, the online reviews put us off visiting the tanneries – I’m not sure I’d really want to to be honest anyway. Ah I miss the Moroccan sunshine!

hellojenniferhelen says

May 4, 2018 at 1:09 pm

We had a very similar itinerary when we went to Marrakech! Must admit, I found the souks pretty stressful – the heat, getting lost, people following you, people shouting at you. If we went back I’m not sure I’d want to stay in them!

Roger Castillo says

May 4, 2018 at 2:59 pm

Love your photos. I was there in 1999 and it still looks the same. But it probably looked the same in 1899. Haha! I do miss the Djemaa el-Fna. Photo ops everywhere. Good reporting on your part. Thanks. Safe travels.

aggiemush says

May 5, 2018 at 6:38 pm

I went to Marrakech in 2008 with a friend and I’ve been dying to go back ever since!! This is such a good itinerary and I realize now I missed so much!

suedavies689 says

May 5, 2018 at 7:28 pm

Nice photos and report. Brought me back to when I was there. Wish I had 4 days. Loved the Souk. And we did a cooking class.

Violeta says

May 5, 2018 at 8:19 pm

Hey, I’ve been to Marrakech last week, and I’ve got photos of the same kitten at the Saadian Tombs. I’ve also seen the tanneries. The guy who led us there allowed me to climb on a terrace to take photos. He also gave us some fresh mint leaves to smell from time to time – I used them quite a lot.

Bangali Backpackers says

May 5, 2018 at 8:36 pm

Marrakech is so lively…it’s almost like a cabinet of curiosities. Love the marvellous architecture around the city.

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The Ultimate Marrakech Travel Guide (2024)

Planning a trip to Marrakech but don’t know where to start? Here’s your ultimate guide to visiting Marrakech, Morocco. This Marrakech Travel Guide covers everything from where to stay and how to get to Marrakech, to the best things to do when visiting Marrakech for the first-time and much more. I spent five days exploring this incredible, vibrant, colourful city and it completely stole my heart. Fusing east and west in a delicately entwined and dusty package, there are two very different sides to this city and I’m excited to share how you can make the most out of your visit. Whether you’re planning a solo trip, a couples break or a holiday with friends or family, Marrakech is the perfect destination for all budgets.

Imagine a city where you can explore the dusty, winding streets through bustling souks, discover archaeological and architectural gems, taking a moment to rest in shaded gardens with trickling fountains and gorgeous rooftop bars for sunset. There are so many things to do in Marrakech, Morocco, and it doesn’t stop at the city, you can venture further afield to the beautiful Atlas Mountains to explore waterfalls, or even spend a night in the Agafay Desert watching the sunset fade into a starlit sky. It’s time to live your desert princess dreams and book a trip to Marrakech today!

Travelling to Marrakech: Everything You Need To Know

Booking flights from the uk to marrakech.

If you’re flying from the UK, it can be super cheap and easy to get to or from Marrakech , Morocco, with around 125 flights per week. The cheapest month to fly is March, when flights start from £35, while the most expensive is August from £143. Flying into Marrakech Menara Airport is easiest as you are just 3km from the city. Flights are available with a range of airlines from London including Jet2, EasyJet, Ryanair, British Airways and several others. Jet2 and Tui also provide package holidays to Marrakesh in case you prefer to book everything in one go and take the stress out of organising. The flight takes 3 hours and 51 minutes from the UK to Marrakech. Find cheap flights to Marrakech now

>> Read: 5 tips for finding cheap flights for any destination

How many days do I need in Marrakech?

You could easily do a long weekend in Marrakech and that would be a perfect length trip. There’s a lot to see and do in the city, but I think you only need a few days there or the heat and bustle of the city can become oppressive. We actually visited for five days and found it a great length of time for us, but we also chose to do some day trips out of the city which really made the trip. If you have time to stay longer, it is worth doing if you plan to take a few day trips from Marrakech . Keep reading this Marrakech Travel Guide to find out the most unique things to do in the city and excursions around Morocco.

How to avoid getting sick in Marrakech

It’s always a worry when visiting somewhere new that your body might not agree with the destination. The change of foods, the travel and the water all pose risks that could result in a poorly tummy. However, that’s no reason to not travel to a destination, just all the more reason to travel prepared. I was a bit poorly in Marrakech but it didn’t stop me exploring – here’s my Marrakech Travel Guide top tips for avoiding getting sick and enjoying your stay:

• Don’t drink the water or use it to brush your teeth!
• Avoid anything fresh including salads or even olives served in restaurants that could have been exposed to water
• Drink plenty of bottled water and stay hydrated in the heat (it was 40ºC when we visited!)
• Take time to rest and stay cool in the shade during the hottest parts of the day
• Travel with sickness/diarrhoea medication in case you get caught short
• If it is really hot while there, it’s worth taking rehydration sachets and adding them to your water daily
• If you do get sick, make sure you see a doctor if needed and seek medical advice
• Always get travel insurance! It can be a lifesaver if you do get poorly and need medical help.

Check out this post for my travel insurance recommendations !

Read:  Saviours for when you’re struck down by travel sickness

Marrakech Travel Guide: Tips for Exploring Marrakech and the Medina

It can feel intense and overwhelming to explore Marrakech’s city centre (the Medina) especially during peak season. I highly recommend travelling in the quieter seasons – we actually visited in June and it was nice to explore and quieter than usual. However, the temperatures did vary a lot from 30-40ºC over the course of the week. Here’s some key things we learned from our week-long visit to Marrakech:

• Always carry cash as well as card – most businesses will accept card payments however, market stalls in the souks and food stalls will not.
• Don’t accept help from strangers – they will try and pretend they work for a hotel and will take your luggage but then they will ask for a tip.
• Be firm when you say no and be prepared to say it a lot! Everyone will try and sell to you, their livelihood depends on it. Be kind and firm and remember it is a different culture to what you might be used to.
• Remember to haggle when shopping – this is part of their way of life! So don’t be scared to negotiate and drive the price down so you’re not just paying the standard tourist rates.

What to wear when visiting Marrakech

It’s important when packing for a trip to Marrakech to remember that, as an Arabic country, Morocco is more conservative than your standard holiday destination. I do want to preface this by saying that Marrakech did seem a lot more relaxed than I expected and I did see a lot of tourists walking around the main square and sitting in bars with bare shoulders. However, that doesn’t mean that you should . Please be respectful when walking around public areas including the Medina and the souk, visiting tourist attractions and generally places of worship or historic buildings. Ensure that you wear clothes that cover your shoulders, dresses or skirts that are below the knee and choose loose fabrics over clingy ones.

For women, it’s the perfect place to crack out the maxi dresses and midi skirts, loose linen trousers and shirts and maybe even carry a pashmina for extra coverage where needed. For men, I’d recommend long shorts or trousers and t-shirt or even a shirt over it. It’s always good if you’re visiting certain places or tourist attractions to check online if there are any specific dress codes or restrictions as some places are more conservative than others. If you’re heading to any of the more Westernised bars or rooftop bars, you will see people dressed far less conservatively and that’s perfectly okay, but worth remembering that you may have to walk to a venue and need to cover yourself during this time. If you are a woman / solo female traveller visiting Marrakech, I would recommend covering yourself particularly to limit stares and unwanted attention. I found travelling as a couple this was fine, but as a solo traveller I might cover up slightly more.

Marrakech Travel Guide

Finding the perfect accommodation in marrakech for your budget.

There are so many types of accommodation to choose from when visiting Marrakech, it can feel a little overwhelming to decide. The key things to decide are your budget for the trip and whether you would like to stay in one place or experience different types of accommodation during your trip. Then you need to think about whether you prefer boutique and traditional vibes in the riads, budget hostel community vibes or whether you prefer the vast luxury of an all-inclusive or luxury hotel. When choosing your Marrakech hotel or accommodation, make sure you check whether you are booking in the Old Town or New Town – if you’re planning to sightsee around the Medina it could be a pain to have to get taxis over to the Medina every day.

Always remember, the three rules for choosing accommodation:

• ALWAYS read the reviews! And cross-check across Booking and various other websites – some accommodations have fewer reviews on certain sites but loads on one.
• Price check between booking websites and the actual accommodation website – sometimes it can be cheaper to book direct, however you can also benefit from rewards on Booking.com such as free upgrades/free breakfast/airport shuttles etc.
• Make sure you look at location & on a map view to check how easy it is to get between places in a location. Ideally you want to be able to walk everywhere, so check that is possible and you’re not the other side of the city as you can end up spending a lot on transport.

>> READ:  24 Ways To Get Cheap Hotel Deals in 2024

3 of the Best Budget Riads in Marrakech

It can be a minefield trying to choose the perfect riad for your stay in Marrakech, there are simply so many to choose from! I highly recommend you book a riad when visiting Marrakech, if only for a couple of nights before going to a hotel. It really is such a unique experience of accommodation and the hospitality is faultless.

During my stay in Marrakech I stayed in four riads which was great for providing a well-rounded experience of both riads and Marrakech. You’ll notice that I’m only recommending three of these riads because they provided such an amazing experience that I would happily go back and stay at them again, and would love for you to experience them. The fourth? Well let’s just say it had a few too many critters running around for my liking which was a shame considering it had potential to be the most visually spectacular.

But what is a riad?

Well the term means a “traditional Moroccan house” and comes from the Arab word ‘ryad’ which refers to the townhouses that have been turned into accommodations. They provide a truly unique experience and are much smaller than the standard hotel counterparts, often with only around 10 rooms. This means that they are so uniquely decorated with each room having a truly magical finish that provides you with an experience, not just a stay.

Riad Hikaya – £££ (from £140) Rated 9.7 on Booking

Riad Hikaya is a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of the Medina and a place that instantly makes you feel like you’re in a movie set from the moment you walk in the door. “Hikaya” actually means story in Arabic, and this beautiful and opulent surrounding certainly makes you feel like the main character in your story. With just eight rooms surrounding the tranquil courtyard and year-round outdoor heated pool, it provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding streets.

An oasis of calm in the centre of the city with direct and easy access to Marrakech’s top tourist attractions and sights, including just a 10-minute walk from Djemaa El Fna square. The service is incredible and the hospitality of the small team is faultless, bringing a homely feel to this centre of elegance and luxury. The rooms are intricately decorated in the traditional Moroccan style, including the stunning bathrooms with ornate freestanding bathtubs fit for a princess. Don’t forget to enjoy a leisurely Moroccan breakfast fit for a king on the beautiful rooftop overlooking the Medina.

>> Book a stay at Riad Hikaya now

Riad Livia – ££ (from £100) Rated 9.4 on Booking

If you’re looking for the ultimate relaxing experience and hideaway from the busy Medina, Riad Livia provides the perfect boutique escape. With just five suites, it can feel almost like you have the whole place to yourself. Imagine the serenity of a spa, with the scent of orange blossoms mingling with the sound of birdsong as you enter the cool entryway. The suites are vast and luxurious from the unique and exquisite design, to the vibrant colours. Experience incredible Moroccan hospitality with a kind and warm welcome from the team as you walk through the door.

Don’t forget to head to the rooftop, where the true magic awaits. It’s the perfect place to relax, take in the sights and sounds of the Medina as you relax in the sunshine and enjoy the plunge pool. My favourite part was the leisurely breakfasts in the bright sunshine as the birds chirped and sung, and the Media came to life beneath us. This is a stay where you can experience full luxury on a budget while having easy access to the heart of the Medina.

>> Book a stay at Riad Livia now

Riad Ayada – £ (from £69) Rated 9.5 on Booking

If you’re looking for a real budget stay but don’t want to scrimp on the homely, welcoming hospitality that is so well-loved in Morocco. Riad Ayada is the place for you! This authentic riad is located just 600m from the very centre of Morocco but on the other side of the main square to the other two riads I have recommended and gives a totally different experience. You enter the Medina from a different place and while still vibrant, colourful and lively, it feels like a totally different place. We loved both experiences and highly recommend this riad.

Our lovely French host, Delphine, was so thoughtful, kind and couldn’t do enough for us, including taking the time to call her friends and book us tables at popular rooftop bars and advise us on the best things to do in Marrakech. We stayed in two different rooms while visiting, one downstairs in the cool and shaded courtyard, and another at the top of the building which came with a beautiful tented room and rooftop terrace where we could enjoy a private breakfast. The rooms are hugely spacious with plenty of space to relax by the pool and in the sunshine.

Book a stay at Riad Ayada now

The Best Hotels and Hostels in Marrakech

If you’re keen for luxury getaway to a hotel in Marrakech, here’s some great Marrakech hotels:

• La Sultana Marrakech – spectacular stay with world-class service, luxury outdoor swimming pool and rooftop terrace. (£££)
• Les Jardins De La Médina – in the heart of the Medina, exotic gardens, restaurant and hammam spa on site. (££)
• Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech – 10 minute drive from the centre with views of the Atlas Mountains. (£££)
• Tigmiza Boutique Hotel & Spa – a short drive from the centre, pools, bars and Atlas Mountains views. (££)
• Royal Mansour Marrakech – luxury stay with indoor and outdoor pool, just five minutes from the main square. (£££)

If you prefer to travel on a tighter budget and to meet other like-minded travellers, here’s some hostels to try in Marrakech:

• The Central House Marrakech Medina – styled like a huge riad but with dorms available as well as private rooms.
• Equity Point Marrakech – another huge riad-style hotel/hostel but dorms available and a swimming pool!
• Kasbah Red Castel Hostel – great location for exploring, community vibes, lovely outdoor terrace and really clean.
• Be Nomad Hostel – great location, lovely welcoming hosts, communal areas for meeting other travellers and great decor!

Marrakech Travel Guide: 8 Unique Things to do in Marrakech

If you’re looking for unique experiences when visiting Marrakech, I’ve got some gems in this Marrakech Travel Guide for you to try:

• Moroccan Cooking Class with Farmer’s Market Visit – discover Moroccan flavours and ingredients at the market, then visit a chef’s private home to enjoy a cooking class and prepare a meal together.
• Luxury Spa Massage and Steam Hammam – a traditional Moroccan hammam is an experience you simply have to try. The ultimate spa, scrub and massage experience, enjoy this luxury package and relax in tranquil surroundings.
• 3-Hour Colourful Souks Tour – explore the vibrant open-air markets and souks of Marrakech with this tour of the most vibrant and colourful labyrinth of stalls.
• Ben Youssef, Secret Garden, & Souks Walking Tour – take in the stunning architecture of Marrakech with a walking tour of the city’s most beautiful buildings, the lively souks and the lush oasis of the Secret Garden.
• Ouirgan Berber villages & Salt mine Day trip from Marrakech – support the local villages by joining this tour to discover rural life, traditional Berber villages and the salt mines.
• Quad Bike Tour to Palm Oasis and Jbilat Desert – go on an adventure you won’t forget as you ride through the palm trees to traditional Berber villages on quad bikes before taking a break with local bread and honey.
• Desert and Palmeraie Horse Riding Tour – if you love horse riding, this trip is the one for you. Sip traditional mint tea, admire the palm trees, and pass by traditional Berber villages.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride with Traditional Breakfast – a hot air balloon ride is always a magical experience, imagine starting your day with an incredible sunrise over Marrakech before a traditional Moroccan breakfast.

Marrakech Travel Guide: Best Things to do in Marrakech at Night

The sightseeing and travel experiences don’t have to stop just because of nightfall, if anything it is the time to really explore the city in the cooler temperatures. Here’s some ideas for things to do in Marrakech at night:

• Marrakech: Street Food Tour by Night for a taste of the local cuisine and delicacies from the bustling souks and markets.
• Visit a rooftop bar for sunset – I recommend Kabana Rooftop , Dardar Rooftop and El Fenn for amazing sunset views!
• Medina by Night Tour to explore the colourful wonders of Jemaa el Fnaa medina, shop and try the local tea.
• Go to a Jazz Bar and enjoy live music – I recommend La Pergola for amazing food, drinks and music!

6 Best Day Trips to Take From Marrakech

Ouzoud waterfalls guided hike and boat trip.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the beautiful Atlas Mountains and visit an oasis nestled at the foot of the mountains. The Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike and Boat Trip is a great way to escape the city and visit a totally contrasting landscape, experience the beauty of Ouzoud Waterfalls and have lunch with a view of the falls after a relaxing boat ride with the locals.

Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride, and Dinner

The most magical experience of the trip, I half expected a magic carpet to whisk me away into the sunset. The Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride, and Dinner is an experience you won’t want to miss when visiting Marrakech. Just a few hours over the evening, it’s perfect for getting out of the city and witnessing the beauty of the desert and watching the stars come out to play. Enjoy a relaxing dinner under the stars with local Berber musicians. Although this trip does come with the opportunity for a camel ride, I chose not to take part in this activity. Please always do your research before riding animals and ensure they are well looked after.

Atlas Mountains Full-Day Hiking Trip

If you love getting outside, the Atlas Mountains Full-Day Hiking Trip could be the perfect day trip for you. This scenic hike takes you through the traditional Berber settlements of Ait Mizan, Targa and Imoula before enjoying lunch in a Berber house in Ait Souka.

Atlas Mountains and Berber Village Day Trip

Skip the hiking if you prefer but still experience the magic of the Berber community and lose yourself in the beauty of the Atlas Mountains on the Atlas Mountains and Berber Village Day Trip . Experience traditional and local life in villages throughout the mountains, including Tizi N’Tacheddirt, the highest village in the Atlas Mountains.

Full Day Trip To Essaouira city From Marrakech

Missing the ocean? Take a trip to the seaside with a Full Day Trip To Essaouira city From Marrakech and visit this beautiful fishing village where you can experience Morocco’s seaside culture and learn how argan oil is extracted. Take a stroll around Essaouira’s Medina and witness traditional agriculture and architecture

Merzouga 3-Day Desert Safari with Food

Fancy something a little more adventurous? Why not book the Merzouga 3-Day Desert Safari with Food and spend a few days travelling through the desert on a safari you won’t forget? Spend the night at a Bedouin camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes. Ride a camel to watch the sunset and sunrise. See the Kasbah of Ouarzazate, and much more. Again, if you chose to ride camels, please do your research beforehand and ensure the animals are not being mistreated.

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Marrakech Travel Guide: How to Spend 3 Days in Marrakech

This Marrakech travel guide covers all the key things to see and do in this wonderful year-round destination. Marrakech in the heart of Morocco is the ideal place to visit if you’re looking for an enticing and eclectic trip. The city is packed with cultural attractions, interesting food and a has a truly invigorating atmosphere.

Marrakech is a brilliant city to explore, either as a city break, on a longer Morocco adventure, or as a winter sun holiday. It even makes for a brilliant destination for a girls trip !

We recently spent three days in Marrakech at the half way point of our two week adventure in Morocco. We started in Rabat , took the train to Fes for a few nights, before heading onto Chefchaouen where we went hiking in the Rif Mountains . After this, and before arriving in Marrakech, we explored the Sahara Desert in a 4×4 .

By this point, we didn’t know what to expect with Marrakech. None of the cities had matched our preconceptions of Morocco so far. Some of the preconceived expectations included hassle from men and shop owners, the feeling we might be pick-pocketed, finding ourselves in dodgy alleyways in the medina or darting around crazy traffic on the roads.

But Marrakech was all these things. The city was exactly as everyone described it. Hot and dusty, with lots of hassling. There were snake charmers in the main square, Jemaa el Fna. Oh, and tourists everywhere.

However, we loved it. Maybe because it did match our expectations of Morocco? I don’t know. Maybe because there was greater appreciation in finding an extra sweet shop owner, or navigating the medina alleys without getting lost for the first time. It could have even been the greater satisfaction in finding solitude in such a busy city.

Whatever it was, I’m not sure. Out of everywhere in Morocco we visited, Marrakech is the main place I could return to.

Two or three days in Marrakech is the great amount of time to explore this city, which is an absolute must-visit on any Morocco itinerary.

If you have plans to visit the Atlas Mountains or anywhere else outside of Marrakech, you’d definitely need to add days on but otherwise, three days to explore Marrakech is ideal. So here’s my Marrakech Travel Guide:

Marrakech Travel Guide: Best Things to See and Do

Spend the morning at the jardin marjorelle.

Beat the crowds and head to Le Jardin Marjorelle early. This exquisite garden is like nowhere else, and together with the Musee Yves Saint Laurent, it’s the perfect respite from the medina. Read my guide to visiting the Jardin Majorelle here , including information on the best photo spots.

These gardens are also known as the Majorelle Garden or the Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) garden.

Visit the Medersa Ben Youssef

Another example of incredible architecture in Marrakech, Medersa Ben Youssef is an Islamic place of education founded in the 14th Century. As with many of Morocco’s mosques and medersas, it has been beautifully maintained and cannot be missed on any trip to Marrakech. You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the building, with its upper and lower terraces and central fountain.

Explore the Medina

Marrakech’s medina is a beast. You are absolutely certain to get completely lost, but that’s half the fun. The medina is huge but after a few days, you’ll have the route back to your hotel nailed (maybe..).

Top tip: Download your route on Google Maps before you leave, and you’ll be able to use the app without Wifi as you walk around!

Hours can be spent wandering the tiny laneways of the medina. Take the time to speak to the shop owners, hear their stories, purchase their beautiful wares, such as jewellery, lamps, clothing, spices and sweet treats.

Drop by Jemaa el-Fna Square

This square is the beating heart of Marrakech. The Jemaa el-Fna Square was certainly not my favourite area of Marrakech. It is also nearby the Koutoubia Mosque which is another of Marrakech’s must-visit attractions.

The atmospheric square is home to snake charmers, working donkeys, scammers, musicians, artists – and anyone who can make a quick buck from a tourist. Enjoy it, but stay vigilant and be wary!

Visit La Mamounia

For the ultimate opulent experience, visiting La Mamounia as a day visitor is one of the best things to do in Morocco. I’ve written a full guide on how to visit the spectacular La Mamounia hotel and spa as a day visitor here . If it’s in your budget, then go one better and stay – it is without a doubt one of the best luxury hotels in Marrakech, and even Morocco.

For the ultimate ultra-luxury Moroccan experience, La Mamounia is one of a kind. Even with just three days in Marrakech, we recommend staying or visiting here.

Stop by the Places des Epices

Places des Epices is another lively and atmosphere square tucked into the medina, although it is a lot calmer and more pleasant than Jemaa el Fna. This area is perfect to pick up spices and other local crafts, it’s also home to the hedonistic hotspot that is NOMAD . This is one of the best restaurants in Marrakech – I’ve written a full guide on where to eat in Marrakech here .

Enjoy a hammam or pool time

Spending two or three days in a city like Marrakech can be surprisingly tiring. The frenetic pace and noise of the city can wear down even the hardiest of travellers.

Many of the traditional types of accommodation in Marrakech are in the form of riads – something I’d highly recommend staying in for an authentic experience. Many riads in Marrakech have pools, either on the ground level or on the rooftop. Spending time cooling off and relaxing here is a not a bad idea in the city like Marrakech.

Another of the best things to do in Marrakech is to experience a traditional hammam. With designated women and men’s sides, a hammam is a social activity and you will definitely have interesting local women stare at you. Aside from this, you take a good scrub down and have a bath in the public bathing areas – it’s a highly relaxing experience.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Marrakech has a huge wealth of accommodation across the city. From traditional riads to modern hotels, you will definitely find something to match your budget. Here’s my pick of the best budget, mid-range and luxury roads and hotels in Marrakech to choose from.

Budget riads:

Mid-range riads:

• Riad le Clos des Arts

Luxury riads:

• Mandarin Oriental Marrakech
• Four Seasons Marrakech
• Royal Mansour

We stayed between two beautiful riads, both located right by each other at the edge of the medina. The first, Riad Attika was small but perfect for a 2 night stay, then for our final night we were upgraded to the swish Angsana Riads where we stayed in an amazing Heritage Suite Room.

We also ate in some brilliant places across the city, but I’ve put a guide together of our absolute favourite cafes in Marrakech here .

Day trips from Marrakech

If you visit Marrakech for more than three days, or if it’s your second visit, then I would highly recommend doing a day trip from Marrakech. You could go hiking in the Atlas Mountains, quad biking in the desert, camel riding or swimming in waterfalls. I’ve popped a few excellent day trip suggestions below:

• Atlas Mountains Day Trip with Camel Ride
• Half Day Desert Quad Biking
• Full Day Desert and Mountain Tour
• Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip

Marrakech Travel Guide

Have you been to Marrakech before? I hope this guide to spending a few days in Marrakech was useful. Feel free to ask any further questions in the comments section below! 

If you are planning a longer trip around Morocco of a week or two, you might find some of my other blog posts useful. I’ve written detailed guides to  Rabat ,  Chefchaouen ,  Fes ,   Essaouira ,  visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco  and enjoying a  beach break in Taghazout and Paradise Valley . And if it’s your first visit to Morocco, then make sure to check this excellent one week Morocco itinerary here .

I’ve also written some more specific blog posts on  visiting Le Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech , visiting La Mamounia for the day and a guide to some of the  best places to eat in Marrakech .

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This visit Marrakech in Morocco was entirely paid for by myself. There was no involvement from the tourism board or any local companies. This is an independent guide.

Enjoyed my Marrakech Travel Guide? Pin it!

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Visiting la mamounia, marrakech as a …, chobe national park, botswana: day trip …, sahara desert tour in morocco: a …, hiking in the rif mountains near …, 23 comments.

Great info. Did you feel unsafe anytime there ?

Nope, not in the slightest!

I have to visit Morocco. The culture looks so relaxing. I’m glad you got to enjoy it

It looks like you had a wonderful time. The colours and culture in all your photos looks incredible. So vibrant and relaxing too. Great diary of your travels.

Thanks Elizabeth! Sure did have a lovely time!

It sure looks like you had a wonderful time . The colours look so So vibrant and relaxing . I can’t wait to visit.

How exciting Sue! When are you heading there?

Nothing can beat a wonderful vacation.. especially if you’re staying in a beautiful place. So happy to know all your experiences, this should be on anyone’s bucket list!

You’re right!! 🙂

The infrastructures are so beautiful! The recent movie review I did (Red Sea Operation) was filmed in Morocco too! I wonder if you get to see the nice view and set too!

No way! That’s cool! So many films are set in Morocco – I didn’t realise 🙂

I’ve always wanted to visit Morocco! Loved the way you put together this post, and the city seems so colourful too!

Thanks Nandini!

Looks amazing. Def on my bucket list. Thanks for info. Does it get cold at night in desert ?

Quite cold yes! You would need layers 🙂

You look lovely and the pictures are amazing! I’ve always wanted to visit Marrakesh and your pictures make me want to go!

Ah, thank you! It really is a beautiful place!

And what an exquisite garden and overall excursion this was! Love the architecture and the amazing colors in your photos!

Thanks for sharing!

You’re welcome! It is such a colourful beautiful spot!

Your pics are so lovely! Really I want to take my girlfriend here…

this is great blog i like all Information you write it will help lots of people who is traveling alone or by themselves have great day…

Thank you so much for this incredible Marrakech travel guide! It’s a fantastic resource for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful city.

Morocco is a safe country to travel to as long as you understand its laws and cultural customs

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Home » Africa » Marrakech

INSIDER MARRAKECH ITINERARY for 2024

Marrakech is a destination like no other! This vibrant city is an explosion of the senses, with things to see, touch, smell, and hear wherever you go. It is an essential part of any trip to Morocco, as this city has so much to offer its visitors. Our Marrakech itinerary will show you just what.

As you walk down the busy streets of Marrakech, you will  be inspired by the colorful walls, decorated doors, pristine piles of spices, the busy shops and the unique Moroccan charm found wherever you go. Read on to discover our ultimate Marrakech itinerary guide. You’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this magnificent destination.

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Best Time To Visit Marrakech

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There is certainly no bad time to visit Morocco, as the weather here is pleasant all year round. However, there are definitely ideal seasons that will make your weekend in Marrakech as enjoyable as possible.

The best time to travel to Marrakech would have to be during the shoulder seasons. This would be from March to May, and September to November. These seasons provide the most desirable weather conditions – sunny skies with moderate temperatures. Not only this, but the city is more affordable during these periods, with accommodation prices often dropping a little. 

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Be aware that the summer months here can be scorching hot! If you don’t deal well with the heat, then consider visiting during winter. While Morocco’s warmth and sunny skies may seem appealing, the summer heat can get a little bit unbearable. While the winter months have great weather, the city also fills up with tourists over this period. 

Wondering when to visit Marrakech? Take a look at our detailed weather guide below. 

Choosing the best place to stay in Marrakech can be difficult. This vibrant city is split into two different sections – Medina (the historic part) and the European District (the new town). The different areas in Marrakech are all unique, giving you many different places to experience during your Marrakech itinerary. 

The most popular and possibly best choice of areas to stay in Marrakech would be Medina. This is the heart of old-world Marrakech, with all kinds of charming winding streets, alleys, and points of interest. There are many great accommodation choices in this part of the city, and it is the ideal base for exploring the rest of Marrakech, as everything is within easy reach! 

If you would like to stay somewhere a little bit less visited by tourists, then Gueliz is a great area. Gueliz is part of the more modern European District and is a super trendy hub of shops, restaurants, and nightlife hotspots. If you would like to experience the modern side of Morocco, then this is the place to be. 

Now that you know where to stay, its time to choose your accommodation! Here are some of the best accommodation options for your Marrakech itinerary. 

Best Hostel in Marrakech – Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel

• Has an authentic Moroccan feel to it
• Central location
• Awesome rooftop terrace

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel is the ultimate place to stay in this city! With an ideal Medina location, clean modern facilities and comfortable rooms, everything you need is right here! The rooftop terrace, bar, and pool make this a really fun place to stay!

For more cool hostel options, check out our Best Hostels in Marrakech guide!

Best Airbnb in Marrakech – Beautiful home with a lot of space

Riad Barbmar is a renovated traditional Moroccan riad in the Marrakech Medina. A riad is a type of traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. It accommodates up to eight guests in four bedrooms. Regardless of whether you are 1 traveller or a group of 2-8 people, you will have the private use of the entire house and will not share with other guests. The indoor pool is perfect for cooling off after sightseeing. The third floor roof terrace is a great space for socialising with family and friends. The upper terrace on the fourth floor is shaded and ideal for outdoor meals. From there you look over the entire Medina.

Best Budget Hotel in Marrakech – Hotel & Spa Riad El Walaa

• Excellent location
• Fantastic facilities
• A beautiful outdoor terrace

Hotel & Spa Riad El Walaa is a brilliant accommodation choice for your trip to Marrakech. This place offers affordable luxury, with amazing rooms, thoughtful facilities, and a top location in the heart of Marrakech. Enjoy the authentic Moroccan decor, the stunning outdoor terrace, and the relaxing spa. 

Best Luxury Hotel in Marrakech – Four Seasons Resort Marrakech

• Luxurious rooms and facilities
• Loads of thoughtful touches
• An amazing pool area

For the absolute best that Marrakech has to offer, consider checking into the Four Seasons Resort here. This place has world-class modern facilities, well-equipped rooms, and all kinds of thoughtful touches across the hotel. The service is excellent, and the pool is a great place to relax!

Before you start to plan your itinerary for Marrakech, it is important to know how to get around this awesome city. When you are in the medina old town, walking around is one of the best things to do in Marrakech . This way you get to see and experience all the magic that this city has to offer. However, walking around here can also be pretty intimidating and confusing at times. 

In terms of public transport taxis, are your best options. Taxis are easy to catch and will take you wherever you want to go without any stress. They are also very cheap – just be sure to agree on a price before you get in! The bus network in Marrakech is also pretty good, allowing you to travel all over the different parts of the city but it can be slow and can get hot. 

It’s time to start planning your trip! Here are some of the best things to include in your Marrakech itinerary. 

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Jemaa el-Fnaa | Koutoubia Mosque | Hammam | Saadian Tombs | Marrakech Museum | Souk | Bahia Palace

Your 2 days in Marrakech will start off with some of the top sights and landmarks in the city. This first day will show you some of the most iconic Moroccan points of interest and cultural attractions. Here is what to do in Marrakech on your first day.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Jemaa el-Fnaa

• Why it’s awesome: The main central hub of Marrakech
• Cost: Free to explore
• Food recommendation: There are all kinds of delicious local foods on offer at the stalls here. Grab a fresh orange juice in the morning, a delicious lamb dish at night, or even some boiled snails if you are feeling adventurous!

Jemaa el-Fnaa is an essential addition to any Marrakech itinerary! When in the city, you just have to wander through this central hub in order to really experience the place properly. This is one of the top Marrakech points of interest due to its bustling walkways and truly Moroccan atmosphere. 

Take a walk through here and take in all of the stalls and entertainers around you. You will pass snake charmers, henna tattoo artists, huge piles of spices, dates, olives, and more! As this square is the heart of Marrakech, it is always busy no matter what time you visit! 

This is a brilliant place to try some delicious local foods, buy something to take home or to just soak up the unique culture in this city. No Marrakech itinerary would be complete without a trip to Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Insiders tip: This square can get very busy and a little overwhelming, so visit early to avoid crowds. 

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Koutoubia Mosque

• Why it’s awesome: The largest mosque in Marrakech
• Food recommendation: Cafe Kif Kif is located nearby the Koutoubia Mosque, offering the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or a pot of local mint tea. The menu boasts some of the best Moroccan classics. This is a great setting to try some of the best local food in Marrakech. 

Mosques play a huge role throughout Marrakech and these buildings have great historical and spiritual importance to the locals. Not only this, but they also offer some of the best architectural points of interest in the city. 

During your Marrakech itinerary, be sure to visit the Koutoubia Mosque – the largest in the city! This stunning 12th-century mosque is a marvel to look at, being an iconic structure in the city. 

Visit during the call to prayer to take in one of the most important sites in the city. It is important to understand and appreciate the various mosques here during your Marrakech itinerary, as this will give you a stronger understanding of the city. 

Insider tip: The call to prayer occurs five times a day from the top of the minaret. This is great to experience up close. 

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Experience a Hammam

• Why it’s awesome: Traditional local bathhouses found throughout the city
• Cost: Entry to local hammams usually costs around USD $4, while different treatments and establishments differ in price
• Food recommendation: Patisserie Anjar is located near the popular Hammam Ziani, offering the perfect place to grab a treat after your relaxing experience. Choose between many local delicacies, teas and sweet treats at the authentic patisserie. 

When in Morocco, treating yourself to a relaxing hammam experience is a must. Hammams are local bathhouses/spas that are found throughout the city. These are popular attractions for locals and tourists and they will be sure to leave you relaxed, clean, and glowing.

Enjoy a massage, a steam in the sauna, or a dip in the different thermal pools. This is such a great way to escape the frenzy of the busy city and enjoy a peaceful, quiet moment relaxing inside. You can choose between busy local hammams and secluded private hammams.

Some of the most popular hammams in Marrakech include Hammam Ziani, Hammam De La Rose, Hammam-e Sultan Mir, Les Bains de Marrakech Morocco, and Hammam Mouassine. A treatment at a hammam is an essential addition to your Marrakech itinerary! 

Insider Tip: Consider booking a private hammam experience if public nudity is not your thing. People who don’t know this can have some bad experiences in Morocco .

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Saadian Tombs

• Why it’s awesome: Historic tombs for many important rulers of the Saadi Dynasty
• Cost: USD $1
• Food recommendation: Dar Cherifa is the ideal place to grab an authentic Moroccan meal nearby these tombs. You must try the tagine and Moroccan couscous in this Marrakech gem. 

The Saadian Tombs are one of the most popular Marrakech landmarks, offering visitors a great historical place of interest. These tombs are where many of the most important rulers and members of the Saadi Dynasty are buried. The tombs were rediscovered in 1917 after they had been sealed for centuries! 

The Saadian Tombs are beautifully decorated with colorful tiles, carvings, and Arabic calligraphy. This is a wonderful site to explore, as you will learn all about the rich history of the area as you witness some stunning decorated tombs. 

If you love history and want to learn more about this ancient city, then a visit to the Saadian Tombs should be an essential addition to your Marrakech itinerary. 

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Marrakech Museum

• Why it’s awesome: An amazing art museum in the center of Marrakech
• Cost: USD $4
• Food recommendation: Le Trou au Mur is an excellent restaurant near the museum. With a stylish interior and delicious cuisine, this is a fantastic place for a sightseeing break!

Marrakech boasts many brilliant museums, with the Marrakech Museum being one of the best! This is an art museum located in the heart of the city. Expect to see loads of modern and traditional Moroccan art, as well as many other interesting displays. 

While the museum is a fascinating place to visit with all its exhibitions, the building itself is definitely worth adding to your Marrakech itinerary! Housed in a 19th-century palace, this is a grand building to explore. 

Admire the magnificent Moroccan architecture and details throughout this museum. Soak up art, history, and culture as well! This is one of the best Marrakech attractions for those wanting to discover more about the city and its interesting past. 

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Old Town Souk

• Why it’s awesome: The old town trading hub offers the most authentic Moroccan market experience
• Cost: Free to browse
• Food recommendation: Terrace des Epices is the perfect place to grab something to eat between shopping in the busy souks. This rooftop terrace provides a peaceful escape from the busy streets below, with some fantastic food options!

Exploring the bustling souks of Medina is an essential addition to any Marrakech itinerary. Souks are the traditional market streets that are found all over the city. 

These originate from the times when merchants would sell their goods that were transported by camel across the desert into Marrakech. There may not be the camels anymore, but souks today are just as vibrant and important to the Moroccan lifestyle as they have always been! 

Wander through the busy market streets and admire all of the goods for sale. Carpets, lamps, leather products, spices, foods, and all kinds of other things will be on offer here. If you are after a truly authentic Marrakech experience, then the souks of the Old Town/Medina are the places to be.

Insiders tip: While the souks are a lot of fun, they can also be pretty intimidating. Merchants will often try to rip off tourists, and taking in all of the stalls on offer can be overwhelming. Try to bring your negotiating skills and a firm attitude when navigating through the busy souks. 

Day 1 / Stop 7 – Bahia Palace

• Why it’s awesome: Magnificent 19th-century palace and gardens
• Food recommendation: La Table de Marrakech is the perfect place to grab something to eat or drink after a long day of sightseeing. Sit outside next to the palace and enjoy some quality Moroccan cuisine. 

The Bahia Palace is a 19th-century building that was designed to be the greatest palace of its time. This stunning structure is a real marvel to take in, with its iconic Islamic and Moroccan style. Bahia translates to brilliance, and you will see why when you visit.

The palace is a great place to explore and learn more about the history and cultural traditions of Marrakech. It is also the perfect place to take in some of the best architecture in the city. Beyond the amazing palace building, there are also beautiful gardens located here. These are well worth spending some time exploring. 

For a look into the royal life of this old city, be sure to add the Bahia Palace to your Marrakech trip itinerary! 

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Jardin Majorelle | El Badi Palace | Ben Youssef Madrassa | Maison De La Photographie | Menara Gardens

Day 2 of our 3-day itinerary in Marrakech will give you a deeper insight into the history, culture, and atmosphere in the city. Here are some must-do attractions for you if you are seeing Marrakech in 2 days. 

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Jardin Majorelle

• Why it’s awesome: A stunning botanical garden to add to your itinerary for Marrakech
• Cost: USD $20
• Food recommendation: Cafe Jardin Majorelle Marrakech is the perfect place to grab some food, tea or coffee during your trip to the garden. Enjoy local favorites in a beautiful setting. 

Jardin Majorelle is a two and a half acre botanical garden in Marrakech, but really it is so much more than that! This beautiful attraction is a kind of artistic landscape created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle over a period of almost 40 years. The garden was then acquired by the famous designer Yves Saint-Laurent who restored it to its glory.

As you walk through this amazing garden, you will pass through an absolute Eden. There are many magnificent plants, water features, trees, and sculptures. Beyond the gardens, the space also houses the Berber Museum and the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech. Both of these cultural institutions are well worth the visit. 

If you are after amazing art, culture, history, and an unbeatable garden oases, then Jardin Majorelle is the place to go. This stunning city attraction will certainly be a highlight of your Marrakech itinerary. 

Insider Tip: These gardens and museums are not to be confused with the Yves Saint-Laurent museum nearby (which is also well worth the visit!)

Day 2 / Stop 2 – El Badi Palace

• Why it’s awesome: An ancient ruined palace
• Food recommendation: Dar Marjana, located close to El Badi Palace, is one of the best traditional Marrakech riad restaurants. Try some of the tastiest authentic Moroccan food here in a charming setting! 

El Badi Palace is one of the world’s greatest examples of ancient ruins. Comparable to the Roman Forum, or the Acropolis in Athens, this enormous building shows off the ancient past of Marrakech. 

Explore the huge ruins of El Badi Palace to experience just how grand this place must have been back in its time. The palace was built in the 16th century to commemorate the victory of The Battle of the Three Kings. The palace consisted of 300 rooms, decorated in gold, turquoise, and crystal. 

Visiting this site will teach you a great deal of the history behind Marrakech. Experience first hand what the ancient city might have looked like, and learn about its interesting past. This is a must-do activity for history lovers! 

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Ben Youssef Madrassa

• Why it’s awesome: A beautiful 14th-century Islamic school
• Cost: USD $6
• Food recommendation: Jnane Tamsna is a brilliant place to grab a bite to eat or some relaxing tea when visiting Ben Youssef Madrassa. Enjoy the tranquil setting and excellent food!

Ben Youssef Madrassa is a former Islamic school dating all the way back to the 14th century. Ben Youssef Madrassa is a popular attraction in Marrakech for anyone wanting to get a glimpse into the magnificent past of this city. 

While it is old, the Madrassa is beautifully preserved providing an unbeatable example of Moroccan architecture and design. 

Admire the detailed tiles and unique curves of the building. As you explore the Ben Youssef Madrassa, take some time to appreciate the tiny rooms that once held 900 students. Enjoy the peaceful courtyard and stunning wooden windows throughout the building. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Marrakech for an authentic look into Moroccan design and architecture. This is also an interesting historical stop in the city. 

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Maison De La Photographie

• Why it’s awesome: An interesting Moroccan photography museum
• Cost: USD $11
• Food recommendation: Enjoy a great pot of mint tea or a bite to eat from the rooftop cafe here. Not only is the food and service excellent, but the view from here is definitely worth the visit!

Maison De La Photographie is an excellent museum to add to your Marrakech itinerary. This may be a fairly small gallery, but it really has a great deal to offer. During your visit here, you can expect some of the best photography from Marrakech.

The museum mostly displays excellent street photography and portraits, but there are also some interesting photographs dating back over 150 years. This offers an amazing insight into Moroccan life and history. 

The small building housing the museum is also lovely to explore, with beautiful colorful tiles and a magnificent rooftop. This is a really special addition to your 2-day itinerary in Marrakech . 

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Menara Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: 12th-century botanical gardens
• Food recommendation: Cafe Oasis et Tafernout is a great spot to stop and enjoy a cup of coffee or bite to eat while exploring the Menara Gardens. 

The Menara Gardens are the most popular landscaped gardens in Marrakech. The gardens can be found near the Atlas Mountains, to the west of Medina. These beautiful gardens surround a lake, and they offer the perfect breath of fresh air from the busy city. The gardens date back to the 12th century, and so they have an interesting history as well!

Enjoy walking around the pristine lake, and appreciate the wonderful pavilion alongside it. Explore the gardens and take in all of the different flowerbeds, trees, and lush green spaces. If the streets of Marrakech are getting too much, then escaping to this peaceful oasis is the perfect thing to do! 

Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny day and enjoy relaxing under a tree in this picture-perfect garden

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel is the ultimate place to stay in this city! With an ideal Medina location, clean modern facilities and comfortable rooms, everything you need is right here!

• Linen Included

Souk Place des Epices | Gueliz | Hot Air Balloon | Dar Si Said Museum | Quad Bike Tour

If you are looking for more places to visit in Marrakech, then here are some excellent ideas. There is so much to see and do around this city, so planning at least 3 days in Morocco is always a good idea. 

Souk Place des Epices

• A lively souk
• Famous for its many spice traders
• These spices are an essential part of Moroccan culture

Souk Place des Epices is a large square-based souk in the heart of Marrakech. When you are in this bustling city, visiting the different souks is a vital way to really experience the local culture and buzz. This souk, in particular, is special due to its piles of colorful spices!

Morocco is world-famous for its unique cuisine, something that comes from its many flavorsome spices. Wandering through this souk will show you the many immaculately piled spices. The kind of smells and sights that you take in here really could never be found anywhere else in the world.

Whether you are looking to purchase some of these amazing spices to take home, or simply want to admire them in their tall piles, a visit to Souk Place des Epices will always be worth it! Exploring this busy souk is one of the best ways to get an authentic insight into Moroccan life and culture, and it is a great place to learn more about this country’s delicious cuisine.

• The most modern and trendy area of Marrakech
• Offers excellent shopping and restaurants
• Often called the European district

When exploring Marrakech, chances are you will be spending most of your time within the old town. This is where the majority of landmark attractions and riad accommodation options can be found. If you have 3 days in Marrakech, or if you would just like a change of scene, consider visiting the trendy district of Gueliz. 

Gueliz offers you an insight into what modern-day Morocco looks like. This is a super trendy part of the city. Spend your time enjoying the vast array of boutique shops, malls, and beautiful homeware stores. Between this, there are also some of the best restaurants and cafes in the city – perfect for a break between your retail therapy! 

Gueliz also boasts some of the best nightlife in Marrakech. There are plenty of fun and lively bars here to visit for an unforgettable night out! 

In order to truly understand Marrakech, you will need to experience both the new and the old. This is why spending an afternoon wandering around Gueliz can be highly rewarding for any Marrakech itinerary.

Ride a Hot Air Balloon

• This is a must-do activity in Morocco
• The best views in Marrakech
• A fun and unique experience

There are many different ways to see and experience Marrakech, but a hot air balloon is possibly the best. Taking an exciting and absolutely breathtaking hot air balloon flight is one of the most popular activities for tourists in Marrakech,

The best hot air balloon flights in Marrakech will start at dawn, allowing you to witness the magnificent sunrise during your flight. As you rise up, you will get the most unbelievable panoramic views across Marrakech. 

As you float across the stunning desert and towards the Atlas Mountains, you will get to experience the true majesty of this destination. Beyond the amazing views though, hot air balloon rides are such a fun experience. This way of flying cannot be compared to anything else. This is a truly unique thing to do in Marrakech, and an experience you will certainly remember! 

There are a number of hot air balloon companies that operate from Marrakech. Flights generally last about an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak up all of the incredible views around you. 

Dar Si Said Museum of Weaving and Carpets

• A fascinating museum
• The museum is focused towards Berber carpets
• A great place to learn more about Moroccan cultural heritage

A museum completely dedicated to carpets may not sound that exciting to everyone, but this Marrakech attraction is seriously worth the visit. Whether you are interested in Berber carpets or not, you will be sure to learn a great deal of interesting information here, as well as admire some very impressive exhibitions! 

The museum will teach you all about the unique Berber carpets in Marrakech. There are all sorts of fascinating displays devoted to this. There is also a central focus on the art of weaving these products, and what kind of role that has played in Morocco. 

As you will learn from a visit here, these carpets are truly special parts of the cultural heritage in this country. They have a rich and interesting history and have helped to shape Marrakech in many ways. Beyond the carpets though, this museum is an awesome building to visit!

There are some seriously impressive halls here, as well as stunning courtyards and gardens within the museum. This is a great place to take in some beautiful examples of Moroccan architecture while learning about some of the country’s most iconic designs and products. 

Quad Bike Tour

• Quad bike tours are available through the desert
• A fun way to see the area
• Explore the rugged surrounding desert

Now that you have seen some of the best sights and attractions within Marrakech, its time to do some exploring in the surrounding desert. If you would like to experience the breathtaking desert through one of the most exciting ways possible, then consider taking a quad bike tour! 

Not only is speeding along in a quad bike loads of fun, but it is also the best way to navigate the desert landscape. You will get to ride between the stone desert, the dramatic valley found here, and the famous palm groves. 

There are a number of quad bike experiences available in Marrakech. While each may be unique, they will all offer a valuable insight into the life and scenery of the harsh desert. This is a really great way to experience the dramatic landscape around Marrakech. 

Marrakech received loads of each year and most end without incident. While safety does not need to be a major concern while you are here, it is important to understand any potential safety precautions that you might want to take in Marrakech. 

The souks are super busy, small spaces. If you are not careful, these can be easy places for thieves and pickpockets to do their work. When walking through the souks, always keep your belongings close. Also, try to avoid walking through the souks at night. 

Scams are also pretty common in Marrakech, so always be on the lookout for these. Tourists can often look like easy targets for scammers or people trying to rip you off, so keep your wits about you! Also avoid walking alone at night, and stay away from empty alleys.

Shopkeepers, hawkers and unsolicited guides can be persistent and a real nuisance.  Be firm and if anybody bothers you too much, use the magic word “police” and they will disappear.

Be sure to always drink bottled water, and try to avoid ice (as this may contain bacteria). You may also want to avoid eating from street vendors, as there is always the chance of getting ill.

Besides exercising regular caution and following standard safety procedures of a big city, Marrakech should be a safe destination for all visitors! 

If you are also visiting other places in Morocco, you will be pleased to know that on the whole Morocco is a safe country .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Marrakech

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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If you are planning a 3-day itinerary in Marrakech, then you may want to consider exploring some more of Morocco . This city serves as the perfect base for your Moroccan travels, allowing you to do so much more while touring Marrakech. 

Here are some of the best day trips from Marrakech to experience during your visit. 

Full-Day Tour to Ouzoud Waterfalls

Marrakech is an amazing city to experience, but there is also plenty of natural splendor just beyond the city itself. Spend a day taking in the magnificent Ouzoud Waterfalls on this sightseeing tour from Marrakech. 

The highlight of this tour is, of course, witnessing the incredible cascades of the Ouzoud Waterfalls. Your day will also be filled with plenty of other exciting activities, such as swimming in nature in the Al Abib River, and seeing local monkeys in the mountains! The tour includes round trip transportation and an expert Marrakech tour guide. 

Take a Trip to the Atlas Mountains

Just beyond the city of Marrakech tower the impressive Atlas Mountains. These mountains are not just a breathtaking sight to see, but they are brimming with Moroccan Berber culture and picturesque villages. Take this exciting day trip to escape the busy city and explore a more peaceful side of Morocco. 

The trip will include a visit to the village of Imlil, as well as a fun camel ride. You will get to drink mint tea, admire the highest peak in North Africa, and learn all about traditional Berber culture. This is one of the best day trips from Marrakech for those wanting to discover more about the interesting culture and natural beauty of the area. 

Tour Essaouira and the Atlantic Coast

Morocco is famous for its magnificent desert landscapes, but there is also an amazing coast to discover in this country. To experience the best of the Atlantic Coast here, take a full day trip out to Essaouira. 

This is a beautiful coastal town that you will be able to explore at your own pace. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, the historic medina in the town, and the long stretches of pristine beaches. This day trip will show you a great deal more of the unspoiled and absolutely beautiful Moroccan landscape. 

Visit Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Across the Atlas Mountains lie two of the most majestic deserts in Morocco. Enjoy a day trip out to this area to take in some of the most impressive and important sites in the area. The day will include a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou kasbah, a crossing over the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, and a journey through Ouarzazate. 

This area is referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa” as famous films such as The Mummy, Lawrence of Arabia, and Gladiator were filmed here. Needless to say, this day trip will show you some of the most magnificent landscapes in Morocco! 

Explore the Berber Villages and 3 Valleys

If you are planning a trip to Marrakech, exploring the unique Berber culture here is a great idea. If this sounds like fun, consider taking this day trip out to the beautiful Berber settlements high up in the Atlas Mountains.

You will get to trek through beautiful hamlets and valleys, and soak up some of the best scenic views in the area. You will get to stop for lunch in a traditional Berber home in one of the stunning villages that you visit. This is a truly unforgettable experience that could only be enjoyed during your Marrakech itinerary! 

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Marrakech itinerary.

How many days do you need in Marrakech?

To see all the main highlights, I would allow 3 days to see everything. However, you could easily stay 4-5 days and enjoy the cities unique charm.

Is Marrakech worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Marrakesh is the most famous and unique city in Morocco and there’s no where else like it.

What is the best month to visit Marrakesh?

The best time to visit Marrakesh is during the Spring (March-May) when the weather is at its nicest.

Is Marrakesh safe for tourists?

Marrakesh is on the whole quite safe for tourists, but you should keep your eyes on the look out for petty crimes such as pick pocketing and bag snatching.

Marrakech is a busy and vibrant city, with so much going on in every street. Walking through the old town truly is an explosion of the senses, as there is just always such a great deal to take in. This city has such a unique charm to it, and should be a definite bucket-list destination for any traveler.

Marrakech is famous for its spices and cuisine, its peaceful riads, bustling souks, visible history, and beautiful desert landscapes. As you walk down the streets here, you will notice the iconic Moroccan design and sights that just can’t be experienced anywhere else. 

Marrakech really is a destination like no other! With so much to do and see in this city, one day in Marrakech probably isn’t enough. You could spend weeks here without getting bored. We hope our ultimate Marrakech itinerary helps you to make the most of your time in this epic North African destination! 

If your plan is to travel around Morocco and you need to sort your accommodations, check out our Best Hostels in Morocco guide!

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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3 Days in Marrakech: What to Do in Marrakech

Last Updated on Feb 26, 2024

Marrakesh, also known by the French spelling as Marrakech, is a perfect spot for a long weekend trip from London , Amsterdam , or any other European city as there are plenty of cheap flights. Plus, it’s a place of immense beauty and culture, that sits beneath the dramatic peaks of the Atlas mountains and mystique deserts , what more could you want?

I visited Marrakech twice, as I absolutely fell in love with this place and I can’t wait to go back again. If you’re planning a weekend in Morocco, Marrakesh might be your best choice for its ease of access. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, I’m sure it will meet your needs, just make sure to read my Marrakech travel tips before you go so you know exactly what to expect. 

How Many Days in Marrakesh is Enough?

As I mentioned in the intro, it’s quite easy to visit Marrakesh on a long weekend if you’re traveling from Europe and I would say that 3 days is generally enough to see all the main sites . This includes the Medina, souks, Jemaa el-Fna square, and a couple of palaces or gardens. 

That being said, of course, there is plenty more to do, especially if you plan on taking a desert tour or visiting other Moroccan cities like Chefchaouen . In this post, I have gone through all the activities you can fit into a full 3-day trip as well as given you some extra options in case you have more time and want to dive deeper into the culture. 

How to Get to Marrakesh

Getting to Marrakesh is quite easy and inexpensive. You can fly to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) from the UK, Netherlands, Spain, or Portugal for less than $100-$150 return with direct flights taking just 3.5 hours. 

It doesn’t even have to be a cheap airline like Ryanair if you’re not a fan of it. I used Transavia and Royal Air Maroc. I recommend checking on Skyscanner to find the best deals for flexible dates.

Getting Around Marrakech

Thankfully, Marrakech is a very walkable city as long as you are prepared to get lost , often! There are so many winding alleyways with hidden treasures and architectural marvels to explore that getting lost is half the fun and will certainly give you an insite into the city’s vibrant culture.

For longer distances you can take yellow “petit taxis” t hat are generally pretty affordable, just make sure to agree on a set price for your journey before getting in and be prepared to haggle. 

And if you want to go even further afield, you can consider renting a car in Morocco to take day trips or visit other cities. 

What to Eat in Morocco

Moroccan cuisine can seem simple to some, but it’s surely delicious. The basics of it are tajines/tagine, couscous, and kebabs, accompanied by hummus, baba ganoush, and Moroccan salad .

A tagine is a clay cooking pot with a conical lid that gives its name to a myriad of dishes. It can be vegetable only, chicken, beef, fish, or even a breakfast egg tagine. My favorite one is Kefta Tajine which is small meatballs and egg. 

Couscous is probably popular everywhere, but in Morocco, it’s often garnished with a sweet raisin preserve, or in the Berber tradition, with a bowl of buttermilk.

You can also try Pastilla, a sweet and savory Moroccan pie. The traditional filling is a pigeon, roasted almond, sugar, cinnamon, and eggs, but if you’re not that adventurous you can simply go for the chicken option.

Regardless of which meals you try, you can almost guarantee that everything in Morocco always comes with a sweet mint tea .

Where to stay in Marrakesh

​​Choosing where to stay in Marrakesh can be a daunting task as there are so many beautiful (and cheap) hotels. My recommendation is that you pick a Riad for at least one night of your stay. 

Riads are traditional Moroccan houses centered around an interior garden or courtyard , and are often beautifully decorated with bright tiles. They really do offer a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city and allow for a more intimate, authentic experience as they usually have just a few rooms. 

Here are my recommendations of where to stay in Marrakesh: 

• Luxury Hotel: Riad Anya – Offering a slice of luxury in the heart of Marrakesh, this Tiad has incredibly beautiful decor, a relaxing spa and serene ambiance, perfect for those seeking the ultimate indulgence.
• Mid-range Riad: Riad Palais Sebban – Beautifully marrying traditional Moroccan design with modern comfort, this mid-range Riad is another sanctuary of elegance and tranquility, just steps away from major attractions.
• Affordable Hostel: Kasbah Red Castel Hostel – This budget-friendly hostel is known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent location, making it a favorite among backpackers seeking both value and a social setting.

Long Weekend in Marrakech: Things to Do in 3 Days

Depending on when you arrive and depart from Morroco, you may have 3 full days or just 2 if your flights arrive late. 

Below you will find enough activities to fill 3 whole days in Marrakesh covering all the most important sights . But if you don’t have a full 3 days or perhaps just want to relax after arriving at your accommodation on the first night, you can easily pick which are important to you. 

1. Relax in a Moroccan Hamman

Hammam is a steam room, similar to a Turkish bath , where Moroccans habitually go each week to cleanse themselves. It’s a hot steam bath followed by a massage. Sounds wonderful, but it’s not your typical spa. You’ll have to leave your shyness behind, as the first thing to do at the hammam is stripping down.

Don’t even think of wearing a robe. Someone will wash you and scrub you so hard that all your old skin will be gone . It’s sort of once in a lifetime experience. When you go to Morocco, you’d be crazy not to go to a hammam.

Most tourists choose to go to the hammam at either La Mamounia or Royal Mansour hotels, as they’re the most luxurious in town. Their spas are gorgeous, however, both of these places are extremely pricey when compared to regular Marrakesh spas. For a day pass to La Mamounia, you’ll pay $50 not including any treatments.

Recommended Tours : Authentic Moroccan Hammam Experience in Mouassine Comfortable Hammam & Experience Moroccan Berber Spa

2. Experience Jemaa el Fna

Next, start your exploration of the city from Marrakesh’s main square, just as it prepares for the afternoon madness. It’s easy to get to by taxi or walking, so you won’t start your trip in Marrakesh by getting lost.

The square is always crowded and filled with everything from snake charmers to medicine men, magicians, storytellers, musicians, and acrobats during the day. At dusk, it changes into a huge open-air dining area packed with stalls lit by gas lanterns. 

In order to actually watch any of the performers and take photos of the food stalls, you’ll have to give them a few bucks. But don’t worry – it’s worth it!

While eating at the square is amazing, be very careful as some of the food stalls prey off of unsuspecting tourists . They’ll bring you extra plates of food and say it’s complimentary. But at the end of the meal, they will stick you with a huge bill including all of the ‘complimentary food’. Unless it’s olives and bread (customary in Morocco) don’t let the vendors leave anything you didn’t order on your table.

Recommended Tours : Jemma El Fnaa Food Tour with Dinner Medina by Night Tour

3. Shop at the Souk

After filling your stomach, if it’s early enough, you can proceed to shop at the souk (they usually close around 8-9 PM). There are plenty of souks around Jemaa el Fna square, so you won’t miss them. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, wandering around the busy market streets of the souk is an experience in itself .

I definitely recommend buying some aromatic spices, especially saffron, as it’s way cheaper than anywhere else. If you like antiques and traditional decor, you might want to bring home a Moroccan lamp or a Berber rug. Don’t forget to haggle – you won’t be able to buy anything without haggling in Morocco!

Recommended Tours : Hidden Souks Shopping Tour with Private Guide Souks and Foundouks Walking Tour with Moroccan Tea

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4. Enjoy Your Riad

As I mentioned before, you absolutely must stay in a Riad for at least part of your visit so naturally, taking the time to actually enjoy your accommodation is an activity in itself. 

But even if you didn’t book the most luxurious option available, whether you decide to stay at a riad, fancy hotel, or cheap hostel, from my experience every place in Marrakesh has something to offer .

Locals love to eat breakfasts on the rooftop and take some time by the pool while drinking delicious mint tea, so you might want to do the same.

5. Take Pictures at Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ben Youssef Madrasa is a place you’ve probably seen on Instagram endless times, even if you don’t realize it. With zellij tilework, intricate stucco, and finely carved cedarwood, it’s the most impressive medieval Koranic school in Morocco .

Everyone will be impressed by the arches, tiles, and corridors of this place and the inscriptions are quotations from the Koran, the most common being its opening invocation: “In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful”.

Ben Youssef Medersa is also one of the few things that tourists can photograph because mosques are closed off from tourists’ eyes. I recommend going there semi-early (before 2 PM), as it gets busy in the afternoon and you might need to wait to enter.

Recommended Tours : Ben Youssef, Secret Garden, & Souks Walking Tour Private Half-Day Walking Tour Including 4 tickets

6. See the Saadian Tombs

The tombs of the Saadian are the final resting place for the dynasty that ruled Morocco from 1554 to 1669 and are another must-see sight in Marrakesh. The site showcases the beauty of Islamic architecture through its intricate tile work, carved cedar wood, and ornate stucco. 

I suggest visiting with a guide who can give you the background and history of this site . I actually went without the guide and didn’t really find it very exciting until I read up on it after my visit so I wouldn’t want you to make the same mistake!

Recommended Tours : Bahia & Badi Palaces & Saadian Tombs Guided Tour Historical & Cultural Sightseeing Day Tour

7. Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight

If you can splurge a bit, I highly recommend you take a hot air balloon flight over the Atlas Mountains . Trust me, it’s totally worth your time and money. 

After the incredible flight, a Berber breakfast is served followed by a camel ride through the desert to top off a perfect experience in a short amount of time! 

Recommended Tours : Early Morning 40-Minute Balloon Flight Classic Shared Balloon Flight

8. Wander through the Jardin Marjorelle

Next you’re going to leave Medina for the Ville Nouvelle’s most important sight called Jardin Marjorelle . 

This wonderful twelve-acre ornamental garden with cacti and lily ponds was created in the 1920s and 1930s by French painter Jacques Majorelle. It took him 40 years to create the gardens, but after his death, it was set to be destroyed by bulldozers. Luckily, the fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent bought and saved the gardens!

Recommended Tours : Majorelle Garden and Optional YSL & Berber Museum Majorelle Garden Tour with Palmeraie Camel Ride

9. Explore El Badi Palace & Bahia Palace

If you’re a slow explorer and prefer to take your time, I’d recommend focusing all your attention on just one palace in Marrakesh unless you have more time. 

I only have a first-hand experience at El Badi Palace, because even after my two trips to Marrakesh, I never made it to Bahia Palace. It was once closed for the king’s visit, and during my second visit, I got lost and never found it. But…

Bahia Palace is a nineteenth-century grand vizier’s palace that contains some of the city’s finest painted ceilings . South of the great courtyard is the large riad with fruit trees and an epiphany of Arabic architecture giving it a very majestic look.

El Badi, on the other hand, is an impressive ruin . It’s less touristy (in fact, there were barely any tourists during my visit) and costs less. If you pay only 10 dirhams extra you can also see the original Cordoban pulpit from the Koutoubia Mosque.

Recommended Tours : Bahia & Badi Palaces & Saadian Tombs Guided Tour Bahia Palace Guided Tour

If You Have More Time – One Week or More, Add:

For those of you who are lucky enough to have more than 3 days for your trip, here are a few additional activities to add to your Marrakech itinerary. 

10. Take a Cooking Class

We’ve already talked about the delicious food in Morocco so why not take home a souvenir that will last you a lifetime; skills! 

Taking a cooking class will help you discover the secrets behind the fragrant spices and unique flavor combinations that make Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous so irresistible . Also, classes often include market visits to choose fresh ingredients so it’s not just a cooking lesson; it’s a cultural experience, leaving you with recipes and memories to bring back home.

Recommended Tours : Moroccan Cooking Class with Farmer’s Market Visit Moroccan Dishes Cooking Class with a Local Chef

11. Visit Almoravid Koubba

For a bit more of a hidden gem, head off to explore the oldest monument in Marrakech , showcasing rare Almoravid architecture.

The Koubba is a small but fascinating part of Marrakech’s history, often overlooked by tourists. A visit here is a step back in time, perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

12. Explore the Kasbah District

The fortified area of Marrakech called Kasbah is home to historical gates and the Saadian architecture of Badi Palace and tombs. You may have already seen some of it if you visited the palace but this district is a treasure trove of Marrakech’s history. 

Walking through its ancient gates, you’re transported to a time when sultans and royals roamed these grounds . From towering gates to quiet, shadowed alleys leading to hidden gardens with the historic ambiance of the Kasbah Mosque and the vibrant market life, Kasbah is a must-visit for anyone looking to understand the soul of Marrakech.

13. Enjoy Coffee at El Bacha 

For coffee lovers, a visit to El Bacha Coffee Room is an absolute must. Set in a historical palace, this café offers an extensive selection of coffees from around the world . 

Its blend of Moroccan and French colonial aesthetics creates an incredible ambiance and makes every sip feel like a luxurious indulgence

And if you like it subscribe to my YouTube channel

Any questions about Marrakesh or traveling to Morocco in general? Don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below!

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Anna Karsten is a travel blogger, journalist and psoriasis advocate. She has been traveling the world for the last 15 years - visiting over 100 countries and living on 5 continents. Anna has been featured in The New York Times, The Daily Mail, Forbes and more.

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27 Comments

I still haven’t made it to Morocco, but am potentially going this summer if I can find the right flight deals. I could really go for some hummus and a cup of mint tea right now. 🙂

It looks like you had the most beautiful getaway! Definitely adding Morocco to my wish list xx

Ben Youssef Madrasa looks stunning! Marrakesh is such an intriguing place!! Would love to visit some day

Marrakesh is next on our wish list – such a helpful post as we’ll only end up being there 3 or 4 days too! xx

Marrakesh looks stunning, I’ve always wanted to visit Morocco, but still haven’t made it. Beautiful pics and great recommendationas as always Anna 🙂

We are headed to Morocco end of April 2018. Starting in Tamadot, then Marrakesh and wanting to go to a desert camp for 2 days. My wife has neck issues that can be irritated with bad roads! Were the roads smooth or bumpy on the 7 hr. drive. And are there options for a private plane?

Thank you, Doug

Not too bumpy. There aren’t any flight options I’m afraid.

Hi there, which Riad did you stay at? Could you reply with a link. Thank you!!!

It’s Riad Palais Sebban: https://www.booking.com/hotel/ma/riad-palais-sebban.en-gb.html?aid=393814

what a lovely blog.. and you are gorgeous

Hello and thanks so much for your insight into Morocco. We are a family of four, with two teenagers. We are planing on three of four nights in Marrakesh. Do you have any suggestions for one day or even one night trips from Marrakech, to Atlas mountains? Our trip is in mid-July, any thoughts on how the heat will limit of effect our travel plans?

Mid-July will be VERY hot. I’d go to Essaouira for a day trip, not sure if I’d go for Atlas Mountains in that heat. Possibly a hot air balloon is a half-day early morning trip so it would be so hot?

Thanks for the information. This will be useful for my trip to Marrakech I have a plan to Marrakech this year .

Hey lovely, that’s great information. I was browsing through different blogs and yours turned out to be the most informative. I am planning to go to Marrakech from 25th Nov -30th Nov. Not sure if that’s a good time. I checked the weather forecast and it seems to be a good time , slightly on the colder side. I live in Dubai and winters are always welcome. Any thoughts on this? I have seen that you have gone in April.

I am also planning to do Merzouga and stay in Erg Chebbi the same way you did but I am not comfortable driving all the way. You think hiring someone to drive me all the way till Merzouga from Marrakech is a good idea and then the camp manager can pick me from there? If you have a different thought please let me know????

Regards @lasshopper Shanna Thomas

Hi Shanna! You can totally hire a driver. Do a few stops on the way to Merzouga though, it’s worth it!

Your tips are so cool : thank you ! My two children (14-12) and I will be going in Morroco next march. I planed to rent a car. Do you think it’s gonna be essy for me to park it safetly in the different medina ? Thank you !

You can’t drive or park inside the medina. Medinas are walking and scooter only.

Hi I have to take medication and one is morphine will that cause a problem ???

I am planning on taking a family group to Marrakesh next February/March for a special birthday celebration. I want to plan a special activity or event and was thinking of a trip to the Atlas Mountains. Is that something that you would need a couple of days to do (so therefore having to stay a night in the mountains)? Or would it be better in your opinion to do the hot air balloon trip and camel ride in the desert? Also, if we hire a driver, is that something we organise through the hotel when we are there?

Many thanks Mary

Hi Mary, You can surely get a driver through most hotels. There are day trips to Atlas Mountains and you could ride some camels near Marrakesh, so it can be done, but you could also stay overnight.

What currency should we take US dollars or Pounds / euros also is There ATM Bank machines. How much is the Hot balloon rides and can we get six people in one .

Click on the link in the post to check and book the hot air balloon as the price might change. Any currency is good to be honest, you can take out more out of the ATM or exchange at the airport 🙂

I’ve started a rough draft trip to Morocco. I plan on spending about 3 days in and around Marrakech. I am getting all different kinds of tips about definitely needing a tour guide, it’s not safe because of people being very aggressive, and to be afraid. I’m super nervous and don’t know if I want to go anymore. Help.

I’ve backpacked many times (even solo), I am not usually one to be scared but, after what people are telling me…I’m not sure.

Thank you! I loved reading your blog!

Don’t be scared. People were scaring my friends when they were going with two babies and they had a great time!

Hi Anna, I must say it is a really extensive and information article. You’ve mentioned probably everything about Marrakech. I am not planning to go there as COVID has made things a bit hard fro everyone but as soon as the situation gets ease down, I’ll surely be visiting Marrakech. Thanks for sharing detailed article about it.

Hello there! I love your post and i will be subscribing to your youtube channel! We are planning to visit Marrakech from June 30 and perhaps (following your suggestion) just for the weekend. What would you recommend in order to enjoy this beautiful city at its max when you travel with a 13 and 15 years old kids? They want camel ride, markets and having the option of eating their regular fast food from back home (at least one day !) Will the heat allow us to enjoy the trip?

Thank You! We will make our decision based in your point of view! Good day!

You can ride a camel and possibly ATM without a full day trip ( something like this, for example, ) to satisfy the teenagers 🙂 In terms of fast food there are kebabs everywhere, but really Moroccan food everywhere. Heat… personally I’m used to the heat, but it depends on where are you coming from.

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My Top 23 Essential Marrakesh Travel Tips (You Can Thank Me Later)

Marrakech is a fabulous city, full of intrigue and wonder, but it is chaotic and can be intimidating when you visit for the first time, or maybe even the second or third time.

Morocco’s Red City is a different world, so having an idea on what to expect, where to go, what to do, how to dress, how to get around and how to handle the medina is great to have in the back of your mind before you even arrive so that you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

Please Note:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate sales help with the running costs of this site, so thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

My Top Tips for Marrakesh

Take a tour with marrakech by locals.

Saeed of Marrakech By Locals was a great guide, full of knowledge and very engaging. He gave us a potted history of the city as well as lots of useful tips for visiting Marrakech and we went to lots of places we would never have found on our own.

He’s very strict, absolutely NO SHOPPING! Which personally I think is a great rule as it’s really annoying waiting around for other people to shop, especially in a city like Marrakech.

2024 UPDATE: It doesn’t look like he is doing tours any more, however there is another company called Marrakech WITH Locals who do free walking tours and gets good ratings on Tripadvisor.

But you will see lots of cool stuff that you will want to buy so just take note of where you are so that you can go back. I did this by taking screenshots on my phone and writing in my notes, but I’m sure there’s probably a more high tech way to do it!

I’d highly recommend doing this tour on your first day so that it helps you get your bearings and know where to go, where to shop and where to eat.

Wear Comfy Shoes 

You are going to do a lot of walking in Marrakech, so make sure your shoes are comfy as can be. On Saeed’s tour alone, I think we walked around 6 miles, so a pair of comfy pumps or sandals are a must.

How to Find Your Way Around the Medina

Finding your way around the medina (old walled city) can be tricky, but taking a tour near the beginning of your stay definitely helps.

By day, you can ask the way, but by night when everything has closed and there are very few people about, it becomes a little more difficult to navigate.

As you walk from your riad or hotel to Jemaa el Fna (the main square) for the first time, take note of a few landmarks that will help you find your way home, your breadcrumbs, if you will. But just be aware, that just like in Hansel and Gretel, the breadcrumbs can disappear, as by night the shops all close and get boarded up and you can’t tell them apart. So make sure your markers are fixed and that they won’t change when night falls.

As you enter the square, remember which cafes or restaurants are on each side of the street you come out of. That way you’re at least heading in the right direction when you go home.

I would maybe just avoid walking home too late at night.

It may also be helpful to buy a local SIM (I’m with Maroc Telecom) as the signal is pretty good all over Morocco, even in the mountains (the only place it wasn’t great was in the Sahara) and I was able to find my way around the city using Google Maps just fine. If you don’t have an unlocked phone, download MAPS.ME or a similar app.

For those staying outside the medina, you can get taxis from near Koutoubia Mosque or Bahia Palace.

How to Find Your Way Around the Souk

Saeed told us that the souk (market in the medina where you can buy anything and everything) is like a fishbone, with one main spine running through it. From this main street, you can pretty much find your way to all the other parts of the market and just keep coming back to the main street. But I do also think there’s something fabulous about just wandering aimlessly and seeing where you end up.

There are parts of the souk that specialise in specific products and you can actually see some of the products being made there, including shoes, rugs, lanterns, and leather goods, whereas a lot of shops on the main stretches sell more of a mix. If your bargaining skills are good, you should definitely head to where they make the items as you may get a good deal as this is where the other traders buy from.

If you get lost, don’t panic. As someone once told me “that is the charm of the city, to always be lost” and it’s not that big, so you will eventually find your way out and all you need to do to get your bearings is head back towards Jemaa-el-Fna.

But again, Google Maps works pretty well in the souk too!

Shopkeepers Are Your Friends

If you want some help navigating, the best people to ask are shopkeepers or those that are working in the souk. They will point you in the right direction usually without wanting anything in return and they also can’t leave their shops.

I always try to walk with purpose and try not to look lost, even when I am. That way someone is less likely to try and take advantage of my situation.

Generally, people in Morocco are very lovely and helpful, but it has been known for some (especially in the cities) to come up to you and offer to show you the way and either take you somewhere else (their friend’s shop) or turnaround and ask you for money, however, I believe the government has clamped down on this anyway (I think it’s actually illegal now- but don’t quote me on that). We did get a few people offering to show us where to go, but none asked for money, although a couple did the first time I was there a few years ago.

Build-in Time for Shopping & Leave Room in Your Suitcase

If you hadn’t worked it out, Marrakech is a shoppers paradise, so build in some time for shopping. Then you’re going to need to leave a bit of room in your suitcase to fit all your souvenirs in and lots of cash to buy them with.

I wasn’t going to buy anything this time and my backpack was full when I left home, however, somehow, I came back with a jumpsuit, 7 scarves (yes 7), a pair of earrings, a bracelet, a pair of shoes, a painting and an all in one kaftan thing that makes me look like Jasmine from Aladdin and that was me bring restrained.

My friend came back with even more stuff, including a rug, a wooden camel, jewellery, some wooden boxes, a game, a bag, ceramics…

Bargain Hard

Haggling is a national sport in Morocco and I don’t want to say that everyone is trying to rip you off, but most will give it a good go. If they did it at the Olympics, the Moroccans would win every time. It’s in their blood.

A lot of shops sell the same stuff, so you can definitely get a good price if you shop around and aren’t too hasty in your purchases. I bought a pair of shoes (they were similar to the sky blue ones above) for 180 dirhams bringing the guy down from his initial 250. He was a little old man so I figured he wasn’t ripping me off.

Later on, I saw a very similar pair of shoes in another shop. When I asked the price, the guy said 100 dirhams. So the little old fella had definitely seen me coming!

My main rules of haggling:

• Go in with a sense of humour and a smile. Moroccans have an excellent sense of humour, so have a bit of banter with the shopkeepers. It can be really fun.
• Look disinterested. Whilst I was waiting for my friend outside a shop the other day, a guy tried to sell me a bag. I’d actually seen it a few days earlier and quite liked it, but I knew I couldn’t get it home with my luggage restrictions and on closer inspection, it looked a bit dirty. I kept saying no, no, no. He started his price at 700 dirhams, he thought I was driving a hard bargain, but I actually just didn’t want to pay the excess baggage fee and wasn’t so keen anymore, so he kept dropping his price and eventually was saying 250 dirhams. He dropped his price by 550 dirhams, that’s £42 or $60. If this guy came down that much, just think how much he was trying to rip me off in the first place.
• Walk away if you need to, just to emphasise your disinterest.
• Go in with a price in your head that you are happy with. When the salesperson gives you their price, drop it right down, to maybe a third of the price or less if you’re feeling feisty. They say 800, you say 200, meet somewhere in the middle that you are happy with. They’ll never sell for less than it’s worth so don’t feel bad about starting low (see number 2).
• Be firm. Sometimes I just keep repeating the price I want to pay until they give in.
• Don’t let anyone bully you into buying something you don’t want. I cannot even tell you how many times I used to get home and be like ‘why did I buy that?’ – but I’m much better at saying these days!
• Check it’s real. Before you buy anything and pay a lot for it, check it’s authenticity. If they say it’s real leather, drop some water on it . If they say it’s a rug made from wool, take a lighter to it (real wool won’t light). If they say it’s real silver, check for the stamp or test it with a magnet (real silver is not magnetic). Not always easy (I mean who carries a magnet round with them?), but just don’t always believe everything the sellers tell you.

Play the Happy Imbecile (if you need to)

As you walk through the markets, lots of people will call you and try to get you to go into their shop, buy their stuff, drink their orange juice and they can be persistent. So I just smile, wave, and carry on wandering, looking around smiling like an idiot so they think that I’m in my own little world.

As I walk away I’ll often hear ‘miss, miss, excuse me, hello miss’ and I just keep on walking. That way I don’t appear rude, just a bit stupid.

This is one of my favourite tricks, which I have been doing for years, however, a Dutch guy I met in Mozambique hit the nail on the head with this description. This was his tactic for avoiding the notoriously corrupt Mozambican police. As they tried to flag him down, he would wave and smile like a maniac and just keep on driving.

Learn the Word “Inshallah”

A favourite phrase of mine in ‘Inshallah’ which means ‘God willing’ in Arabic. It’s used commonly in Morocco, for when you hope to see someone again, or if you’re hoping something good will happen.

People also use it in the context of time, as in the same way the Spanish use ‘manyana’. Morocco is in Africa, so it’s not immune to good old ‘African time’, you get there when you get there at an unspecified time in the future, ‘Inshallah’.

Although nowadays, a lot of people use it to get out of situations that they don’t want to be in. For example:

A shopkeeper says ‘Come in and see my shop, just look, not buy’ (you will hear this a lot) and you really don’t want to, you say ‘Inshallah’ with a smile and keep on walking. Probably not the right use for the word, maybe you will go back to that shop, maybe you won’t but when you say it, the shopkeepers generally find it funny and understand you’re not in the mood right now.

Pronounce it ‘In-SHA-LAH’ with the emphasis on the ‘sha’ and the ‘lah’.

Advice on Getting Taxis

When you need to get a taxi, always ask a local (maybe the people who work at your hotel) how much a taxi will be from A to B.  They can usually give you an approximate price so you know what you are working with.

Just be aware that when you go to get your taxi, the taxi drivers will always quote you a higher price – tourist price.

There is some negotiation, but some will just walk away if you don’t give them what they ask for. There are usually a few taxis around though, so you can just move on to the next, but very rarely will they go down to the price that it actually probably should be, so you just need to find a price that works for you both, without you getting totally ripped off. This is how my conversation went earlier today:

Me: How much is a taxi to the bus station? (The owner of my riad told me it should be about 50 dirhams)

Taxi Driver: 70 dirhams.

Taxi Driver: 60

Taxi Driver: Ok 50.

So just be firm. If you find a good taxi driver, who gives you a fair price the first time, take his number and please send it to me.

Taking Photographs

General street scenes are fine, but if you take pictures of a specific person or someone’s stall without asking they may get offended or ask for money.

If you want to take photos of the street performers (musicians, snake charmers, or the guys in traditional costume in the square, etc), you will need to pay for the privilege. They sometimes tell you to take a photo and then demand money after, so just be aware that this may happen and try to agree on the price before if you really want that photo.

When you’re watching the busier performances in the square it’s usually fine and you won’t need to pay (maybe give a tip if you feel like it), but if you want a posed photo, then be prepared to cough up.

12. Avoid the Men with the Monkeys & Snakes in Jemaa el Fna

Speaking of the guys with the monkeys…

One of the things I don’t like about Marrakech is the men in Jemaa el Fna (the main square) with the chained up monkeys and the Snake Charmers. They like to get you to take pictures with the animals for money. It’s cruel (they often mistreat the animals) and the men can be aggressive.

I was walking through the square when one of the monkey guys came towards me, trying to get me to touch his monkey (this is not a euphemism) and I kind of ducked out of his way “What, you don’t like monkeys?” He said. “No, I don’t like the fact that you have chained the monkey up.” His response? Shouting “You are ugly as fuck!” in my face. As I walked away he shouted “Nice ass.” 

I just ignored it. Do I wish I’d said something, maybe? But would it have achieved anything? Probably not.

But it’s ok, I go to sleep happy in the knowledge that I travel the world for a living and he is an asshole that walks around a square all day chained to a monkey.

Dealing With Male Harassment

I’ve heard stories of women being catcalled or even having stones thrown at them in Morocco, but I hadn’t personally had any real negativity or harassment thrown my way until the dude with the monkey.

I get the odd “beautiful” or “hey Shakira” but I just give them a polite yet tight-lipped smile and keep on walking so as not to encourage that behaviour. I often pretend that I haven’t heard, or I just raise my eyebrows, roll my eyes, and give a wry smile and just keep on going.

This time I was there I had a guy whisper ‘sex’ into my ear as he walked past me at night and another creepy guy tapped his lips as if to say ‘give me a kiss’ when he was showing us where they dye the materials to make the rugs. He then kept following us around and trying to get us up to a rooftop restaurant to see the ‘views’. We quickly made our excuses and left.

I find the best way to deal with this kind of behaviour is just to not rise to it. Keeping relatively covered up and wearing a wedding ring also helps.

If you are alone, do not let anyone show you a ‘secret’ place and don’t walk alone late at night in the quieter parts of the medina.

Bring a European Plug Adapter

Take a Food Tour with Marrakech Food Tours

I honestly can’t rate this tour highly enough and it’s definitely one of my top Marrakech tips!

Run by Amanda, the blogger behind Maroc Mama and her husband Youssef (who was our guide that night), Marrakech Food Tours is a great way to get an insight into Marrakech (and Morocco) through the heart of the city – the food, the souks, and the people.

Again, they will take you to local places that you would never find on your own and you’ll get to try all kinds of different Moroccan dishes, including sheep’s head (you get a sticker if you eat the eyeball – I passed on that one) and THE BEST couscous I’ve ever tasted.

Book in advance as the tours fill up pretty quickly and I’d say not to do this tour on the same day as you do Saeed’s tour as you will be exhausted.

If you can’t book onto Amanda’s tour, you could try this tour which also gets rave reviews.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

The tap water in Morocco is not known for being particularly drinkable, so it’s probably best to avoid it, especially if you are prone to a dodgy tummy every now and again.

I am one of those people who brushes their teeth with the water, with the thought in mind that I’m building up my immunity, but I definitely wouldn’t encourage anyone else to do it!

Bring a LifeStraw bottle (or similar) with you and then you don’t have to keep buying bottles of water.

Where to Find Alcohol in Marrakech

So many people asked me about where they could find alcohol in the Marrakech medina because only a few bars and restaurants sell it and those that do, tend to be quite expensive.

The nightlife in the medina is pretty chilled, but the places that I know do sell alcohol are Cafe Arabe, Dar Anika, the Piano Bar at Les Jardins De La Koutoubia, Le Tanjia, Le Salama, Kosybar and the Churchill Bar at La Mamounia (just outside the medina).

But if you want more lively nightlife (and alcohol) head to the modern parts of the city, Gueliz, and Hivernage, which are a short taxi ride away from Jemaa-el-Fna. A taxi should probably only be about 30 – 50 dirhams, but you’ll likely be charged around 80 dirhams one way.

Bigger supermarkets like Carrefour and some riads also sell alcohol.

Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

The medina, souks and Jemaa el Fna are all very busy and therefore it’s an ideal place for pickpockets to lurk.

Keep your wallet and phone safe within your bag or about your person and if you have a bag, keep it zipped and close to you.

Skip Jardin Majorelle

Some people are bound to disagree with me on this, however, I honestly think Jardin Majorelle is one of the most over-hyped, boring tourist attractions I have ever visited. It might be ok if you’re a big fan of Yves Saint Laurent or really into art deco design, but even then, I’d say it wasn’t that great compared to other places you can visit in Marrakech.

I do love a garden, but there are others that I much prefer to Jardin Majorelle. It’s also usually pretty busy so you need to go early to avoid the crowds.

However they have now opened the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door, so if you combine the two, it’s probably much better. I like the look of Anima Garden instead, but I haven’t been there yet!

Swat up on Your French, Arabic or Berber

A lot of people can speak English, but knowing a little bit of French is useful, especially in restaurants, as most of the menus are in French and a lot of people speak it.

The two official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) and even if you don’t speak a lot, attempting a few words will always go down well. The most important probably being thank you, which is ‘shukraan’ (I’ve seen it spelled various ways) in Arabic and ‘sahit’ in Berber. And of course the best word in Arabic… ‘Inshallah’.

Always Make Time for Tea

When you’ve had enough of the madness of the medina, head indoors to a nice riad courtyard or a rooftop terrace to partake in one of Morocco’s favourite pastimes – drinking traditional mint tea. It’s delicious!

You can get mint tea almost anywhere, but we had a lovely pot at Riad Yima , which is an art gallery, shop, and tea room all in one.

Dress Appropriately

Marrakech is pretty conservative and the local women are usually very covered up especially in the medina, however, it is a cosmopolitan city and they are used to tourists, so you don’t have to go to extremes.

Keeping knees and cleavage covered is definitely a good idea, so no shorts or short skirts or plunging tops, if just to avoid any unwanted attention if nothing else. I generally prefer to keep my shoulders relatively covered out of respect for the local culture, but I wouldn’t feel uncomfortable if they weren’t. Saying that I usually carry a scarf with me at all times – you can easily buy them in Morocco if you don’t have any at home.

You’ll also need to take note of the weather too. If you go in the summer months, Marrakech gets very hot, so breathable, lightweight clothing is good. Marrakech can also get cold and wet at certain times of the year, so take something warm and/or waterproof with you. I was just there in April and it was freezing and raining.

When it rains in Marrakech the souks become very waterlogged as the drainage system isn’t great, so you may want to take some closed-toe shoes that will withstand a little bit of water.

Just Let Marrakech Happen

One of my best tips for Marrakech is to just go with the flow. It’s good to have a bit of a plan for Marrakech and some things do book up in advance (good restaurants/food tour etc) but you should leave a bit of time to just let Marrakech happen, to wander, to get a bit lost, let the chaos unfold around you and to just to sit and people watch for a while.

I hope this helps you get prepared for your trip to Marrakech!

Other Morocco posts you might enjoy…

• The Perfect 2-Week Morocco Itinerary
• Surfing in Morocco – The Complete Tagazout Travel Guide
• The Charm of Marrakesh
• Highlights of the Rock My Morocco Adventure
• 16 of Africa’s Most Incredible Hiking Destinations
• Morocco – Yoga, Surf Sleep, Repeat
• Camping Under the Stars in the Sahara Desert, Morocco

I love to travel all over the world, but it's Africa that holds a special place in my heart. My mission is to help people travel Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

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24 Comments

I was in Marrakech last month, and I heartily agree with all of Helen’s advice (except skipping the Jardin Majorelle, but then I’m really into gardens). Here are a few little doodads by way of addition. My Parisian French helped quite a bit, but be aware that Moroccan Arabic is its own creature and Egyptian or Gulf Arabic will be of limited utility. A pleasant surprise for me in Marrakech is that the ice cream is quite good. If you’re into architecture and decorative arts, I recommend the Marrakech Museum (next to the Merdersa Ben Yousef). The building is the star attraction there. In most ‘restored’ historic buildings, the marvelous, ornate plaster and stucco work is restored structurally, but it is left white. At the Marrakech Museum, that decorative work is restored to its polychrome glory.

Thanks Tom! Great tips! 🙂

Great list! I wish I had seen this before I went… My husband and I had a bit of a confrontation with the snake guys in the square our first day (he gave them $20 to end it, smh) and also had a guy in Essaouira try to take us to his friend’s restaurant and then demand money. We refused, and he popped up in 3 different places around the city shouting that the Americans owed him money. Those are definitely two very real things to try to avoid.

However, I LOVED the Maroc Mama food tour- so delicious! It was definitely the best thing we did in Marrakech and the street vendors were much less aggressive when we were with Youssef. And the shopping was unreal!

Yeah, the snake and monkey guys are just horrible people who can become aggressive very quickly – best avoided. and wow, the guy in Essaouira sounds really persistent. I’m really on my guard now when anyone offers to show me the way, I always refuse but some people just genuinely want to help. Then I feel bad I was so adamant! 🙂

I haven’t been to Marrakech but seeing your photo it looks like the place has a lot of fun and lively colors from shops to cafes. I would definitely like to visit the country soon but for now I will add it to my “must travel places” on my bucket list.

It’s amazing!!! 🙂

It is absolutely beautiful. The culture looks like my local swap shop. I haven’t been yet but I would love to go just to try their food and shop haha! We might go to Marrakech this summer If we have enough saved up but the tickets are super expensive $1100+.

Ow wow, that’s expensive! Marrakech itself is pretty reasonable though – except to eat and drink in fancy restaurants! 🙂

Such a detailed post full of useful tips. I really want to go to Marrakech but am a bit nervous about going there alone. Thanks for sharing these advice. Just what I was looking for!

Thank you! Honestly, don’t be scared, it’s a great place to travel, just keep your wits about you.

Thanks for sharing all of these. Totally agree with all your tips! We loved Marrakech and didn’t encounter any problems like I heard so many others unfortunately did. Like you, we always walk with purpose and look like we know where we are going even if we are slightly lost. The men that try to “guide” you were a pain but we were able to mostly avoid them. Definitely agree with wearing comfy shoes and bargaining hard!

Very informative post and enjoyable to read! I’m thinking about taking a trip to Morocco towards the end of the year so I’ve saved this post. Thank you for writing it 🙂

Thanks Sandy! Hope you have an amazing time!

So helpful! Thank you so much! You sure had me in stitches with the monkey man!!!

Ha ha, no worries! 🙂 Hope you are well!!!

Your post is so useuful and I love it. Marrakech is on my bucket list for one year now and I can’t wait to see it.

Wow, first of all, thanks so much for this lovely article with these colorful pictures. I really like it. I’m definitely going to try some of these tips for my next trip.

Such an amazing post.

Thanks for sharing wonderful tips with us. I really loved your post.

Keep Sharing…!!!!

Amazing list Helen, Loved it.

Great Post Helen

I love the pictures . Very nice article . Also taking Moroccan cooking class is a good experience as well as trying the Moroccan Hammam (spa).

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

What a great article! Marrakech is such a great place but I definitely wish I did more research before I went! Thanks for all the info!

I have been to Marrakesh before, long ago, and am about to visit with my partner and our 5 year old girl. This blog is by far the best of of all the travel tips I have seen, all very wise. It seems like the place has calmed down a little since I was last there 10 years’ ago so am a little less nervous about launching into the souks with my little girl in tow!

Vive l’adventure!

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Marrakech itinerary 5 days

• ACCOMMODATIONS
• BEFORE YOU GO

A five-day journey to Morocco offers a brief yet enriching experience. During this time, you will delve into Marrakech’s charms and embark on a captivating desert tour. This “ Marrakech itinerary 5 days ” commences and concludes in Marrakech, serving as a foundation for your trip to Morocco.

Keep in mind that all our itineraries are fully customizable to align perfectly with your travel preferences and requirements.

• Duration: 5 days/4 nights
• Start: Marrakech
• End: Marrakech
• Accommodations: Check them below
• Tour Style: Private
• Price: Check it below

Highlights of the Marrakech itinerary 5 days:

Exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and other Marrakech highlights

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

Visiting the historical Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

Strolling through the picturesque Todra Canyon

Riding camels through the Sahara desert of Merzouga

Spending an unforgettable night under the stars in a luxury desert camp

Learning a lot about the Moroccan culture

Why a private 5 days in Marrakech itinerary?

Choosing a private tour for your 5 day Marrakech itinerary brings several benefits, ensuring you make the most of your limited time in this enchanting destination. Here is why a private tour is an excellent option:

Flexibility: Tailor your itinerary to match your interests. Spend extra time at places that captivate you while smoothly skipping others that may not interest you as much.

Personalization: Immerse yourself in a personalized experience with a dedicated guide providing tailored recommendations and insights based on your unique preferences. Choose accommodations that suit your needs and budget for a travel experience designed just for you.

Authenticity: Dive deeper into an authentic travel experience with a private tour, fostering interactions with locals and enhancing your understanding of Moroccan culture and traditions. Explore lesser-known destinations for a fresh perspective on Morocco.

Convenience: Leave behind worries about logistics and transportation with a private tour that takes care of all the details. A dedicated driver, familiar with local routes and customs, ensures a seamless journey, allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment.

A private 5 day Marrakech itinerary offers unmatched flexibility, personalization, authenticity, and convenience, ensuring a memorable exploration of Morocco.

5 days in Marrakech itinerary:

Explore our recommended Marrakech Itinerary 5 days below to discover the comprehensive highlights included in the journey. Please note this itinerary can start from other cities like Casablanca or Fes.

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech

Immerse yourself in the welcoming embrace of Morocco as your 5 days in Marrakech begin with a warm reception at Marrakech Menara Airport. Our local guide will accompany you to your Riad, where you can check in and settle in comfortably. With the rest of the day at your leisure, you can explore Marrakech’s vibrant atmosphere. A visit to the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the city’s bustling heart, offers a glimpse into Marrakech’s lively ambiance. Consider having dinner at one of the square’s restaurants before returning to your delightful Riad for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 2: Marrakech ⇢ High Atlas Mountains ⇢ Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah ⇢ Ouarzazate ⇢ Dades Valley

Commence your desert expedition from Marrakech to Merzouga with a convenient pickup directly from your Riad. Leave the bustling city behind as you journey southeastward, traversing the scenic High Atlas mountains. Along the way, you will encounter charming Berber villages and have opportunities to capture stunning photographs from picturesque viewpoints.

Savor a delightful lunch at Ait Ben Haddou village, a UNESCO-listed treasure famed for its ancient Kasbah. This historic “fortified village” has served as a backdrop for iconic movies like Prince of Persia, Gladiator, and the famous TV series Game of Thrones.

Following a brief stop in Ouarzazate, home to Africa’s largest studio, you can opt for a visit if interested. Then, continue your journey towards Dades Gorge, passing through the enchanting Valley of Roses en route. In the Dades Valley, marvel at incredible rock formations famously called “monkey fingers” and enjoy a panoramic vista of the Gorge and the valley before retiring to your hotel for a restful night.

Total driving distance: Approximately 353 km

Total driving time: Approximately 6 hr 30 min

Day 3: Dades Valley ⇢ Todra Canyon ⇢ Merzouga desert

Enjoy a delicious breakfast to fuel your day as you prepare for an exciting journey ahead. Traverse the stunning landscapes along the Dades and Todra Rivers, adorned with verdant palm groves and authentic Berber settlements. Your first destination is the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge in Tinghir, famous globally for its breathtaking beauty.

On your way to the mesmerizing Merzouga desert, our experienced driver/guide will suggest a stop at a traditional Berber shop. Here, you can immerse yourself in Berber culture by trying on traditional outfits and capturing memorable photographs, all without any additional cost. If you are interested, you can also browse through desert essentials like scarves or unique souvenirs. However, there is no pressure to make purchases; the shop visit is primarily an option to promote the Berber culture. If you prefer to continue without stopping at the shop, just let your guide know, and we will proceed uninterrupted.

Upon arrival in Merzouga, get ready for an unforgettable camel ride into the heart of the desert. Witness the captivating sunset over the sand dunes and indulge in the thrilling activity of sandboarding. As night falls, retreat to a luxurious desert camp where a tasty dinner awaits. Experience the enchanting magic of the desert under the starlit sky, immersing yourself in its timeless allure and creating lasting memories of this unique desert adventure.

Total driving distance: Approximately 275 km

Total driving time: Approximately 4 hr

Day 4: Merzouga desert ⇢ Agdez ⇢ High Atlas Mountains ⇢ Marrakech

After a delightful breakfast at your desert camp, we will embark on our return journey to the bustling city of Marrakech. This time, our route will guide us through the scenic Draa Valley, renowned as Morocco’s longest valley. Along the way, we will pause in Agdez, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of this valley adorned with lush palm trees.

During our journey, we will make a stop in Ouarzazate for a delectable lunch to refuel for the rest of our trip. Continuing our path, we will traverse the majestic High Atlas mountains once more, making our way back to Marrakech. Upon arrival, we will drop you off safely at your Riad.

Total driving distance: Approximately 560 km

Total driving time: Approximately 9 hr

Day 5: Explore Marrakech

Commence your final day on this captivating 5 days in Marrakech itinerary with a delightful breakfast at your Riad. Our friendly local guide is ready to showcase Marrakech’s best attractions, sharing interesting stories about iconic landmarks like Jemaa El-Fna Square, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Ben Youssef Madrassa, and the Koutoubia Mosque.

After a satisfying lunch, take a stroll through the modern side of Marrakech and explore the exquisite Majorelle Garden, offering a serene retreat in the heart of the city.

If your flight out of Morocco is today, we will provide a smooth airport transfer, marking the conclusion of your enriching 5 days Marrakech itinerary with Morocco Fabulous Travel.

Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour

• Airport transfers
• Comfortable transportation in a private air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle, van, or minibus (depending on your group size)
• A knowledgeable driver or a driver and an English-speaking tour guide (other languages available upon request)
• A local guide will be provided to help you explore Marrakech
• Accommodations for 4 nights with breakfast included
• Dinner at your hotel in Dades Valley and your desert camp
• A unique camel trekking experience
• Sandboarding
• Entrance fees, when needed
• Tips (optional)

Map of the tour

Accommodations

Discover the magic of Morocco on our exclusive 5 day Marrakech itinerary! At Morocco Fabulous Travel, we specialize in tailoring experiences to fit your interests and budget perfectly. Our top-notch accommodations are designed to exceed your expectations, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. With a range of carefully selected lodging options included in our 5 days itinerary of Marrakech, get ready for an extraordinary adventure with Morocco Fabulous Travel!

You have complete flexibility in choosing accommodations from the three options outlined in our 5 days Marrakech itinerary. Mix and match these choices to craft a personalized experience that matches your preferences and budget perfectly. Should you have other accommodation preferences, please inform us, and we will happily organize them for you. Our priority is to offer you the liberty to customize your itinerary for a truly unique 5-day Marrakech experience.

In case any of the mentioned accommodations are unavailable, we will inform you beforehand and arrange suitable alternatives that meet your requirements. Rest assured, our aim is to ensure your trip proceeds seamlessly and without any issues.

5 days Marrakech itinerary price

The price for the 5-day Marrakech itinerary can vary depending on factors such as the accommodations you choose, the size of your group, and when you plan to visit. To receive an exact and tailored price quote that fits your group’s requirements, reach out to us as soon as possible. Our team is ready to help you create an itinerary that aligns perfectly with your budget and preferences.

Please use the below form to email us and we will get back to you as soon as possible. If you do not hear back from us within 24 hours, please send us a WhatsApp message or call us at +212668662320 . We are looking forward to hearing from you.

Know Before You Go

Please note that the itinerary we’ve provided is a sample for a 5-day Marrakech trip. You are welcome to customize it based on your preferences. The goal is to create a unique experience that reflects your interests and desires.

You can also begin this 5-day Marrakech itinerary from Casablanca. Additionally, we recommend another 5-day Morocco itinerary that starts from Casablanca.

When booking, please let us know about any dietary preferences or restrictions you have. We prioritize your dining experience and will ensure that your meals are tailored to meet your needs.

For those craving an adventurous thrill, we offer an optional activity of quad biking or buggy driving in the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi Dunes. To include these exciting experiences in your itinerary, feel free to inform your guide during the tour, and they will gladly make the necessary arrangements to ensure an exhilarating adventure for you.

If camel riding is not your preference, do not worry! You can choose a 4×4 ride to the desert camp without any extra charges.

Extra activities

Customize your 5-day Marrakech tour experience! Enhance it with activities and tours that suit your interests. Just let us know your preferences when booking, and we will incorporate your chosen experiences into your itinerary seamlessly.

Read more reviews on Tripadvisor .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 5 days enough in marrakech.

Yes, 5 days can certainly provide enough time to explore Marrakech and enjoy a desert tour as well.

How many days do I need in Marrakech?

The ideal duration for visiting Marrakech really depends on what you want to experience and explore.

Is it worth going to Sahara Desert in Morocco?

Yes, it is definitely worth visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco, especially the Merzouga desert, which is included in our 5-day Marrakech itinerary.

What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

This is a great question! We believe that comfortable travel enhances the overall experience and we strive to provide the best possible travel solutions for our guests. We use comfortable transportation options such as Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX , Ford Tourneo Custom , Mercedes Benz Vito , and Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibus for groups of 8 people or more, and other comfortable options.

How far in advance should we book this tour?

The early bird catches the worm, it is recommended to book the trip as soon as possible.

How to pay for the tour?

Our payment procedure is simple and hassle-free. To confirm your reservation, we kindly ask for a small deposit. This deposit can be easily paid via PayPal, bank transfer, or Wise when you make your booking. The outstanding balance is due in cash on the first day of your tour directly to our knowledgeable driver/guide. You have the flexibility to pay in euros, US dollars, or an equivalent sum in dirhams.

Have a question about our Marrakech Itinerary 5 Days that's not covered here?

We will get back to you within 24 hours. However, please send us a WhatsApp message or call us at +212668662320 if you do not hear back from us soon.

Who we are?

Morocco Fabulous Travel is a specialist tour operator offering the best Morocco Sahara desert tours . We have unique and full programs of Morocco tours, all at incredible prices.

Moroccofabuloustravel.com team is made of an enthusiastic group of people all sharing a deep feeling for the Sahara desert and Morocco in general. We offer our customers the best tours in Morocco , Our crew has first-hand and excellent knowledge of Morocco.

Our services are tailored to fit any budget.

Why book with MFT?

⇢ Booking through a local expert saves time, money, and stress and assures that your itinerary is co-ordinated perfectly.

⇢ We work with individuals who are highly motivated and totally in love with their country. Individuals who never tire of learning more about Morocco, who are capable of tailoring their tours to their interests. Individuals who will not rest until your tours are excellent.

⇢ Every day we find the best offers for our customers, so they can keep visiting our fabulous Morocco again and again.

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The Ultimate Marrakech Travel Guide

Published: October 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Sella Benge

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Introduction

Welcome to the enchanting city of Marrakech, an exotic destination that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Nestled in the heart of Morocco, Marrakech offers travelers a rich cultural experience, with its bustling markets, stunning architecture, and tantalizing cuisine.

Known as the “Red City” due to the distinctive hue of its ancient walls, Marrakech is a treat for the senses. From the vibrant colors of the souks to the aromatic spices that waft through the air, every corner of this city has a story to tell.

Stepping into Marrakech is like entering a time portal where the traditions of the past intertwine effortlessly with the contemporary spirit of the present. The city’s history dates back to the 11th century, and it has since become a hub for artists, musicians, and travelers from around the world.

As you explore the labyrinthine streets of the medina, you’ll be captivated by the intricate architecture, adorned with stunning tilework, carved wood, and ornate stucco. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to a myriad of hidden gems, including historic palaces, tranquil gardens, and ancient mosques.

But Marrakech is not all about history and culture. The city also offers a vibrant and modern side, with trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, and a thriving nightlife scene. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Marrakech will leave you spellbound.

This ultimate travel guide to Marrakech will take you on a journey through all the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and insider tips to make the most of your visit. From navigating the bustling souks to savoring traditional Moroccan dishes, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to create unforgettable memories in this captivating city.

So, grab your passport, pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of Marrakech. Let the magic unfold as you embark on an adventure of a lifetime in this vibrant Moroccan city.

Getting to Marrakech

Getting to Marrakech is convenient as it is well connected to major cities around the world. The city is served by Marrakech Menara Airport, which offers regular flights from international destinations. Many airlines, including low-cost carriers, operate flights to Marrakech, making it accessible for travelers from different parts of the globe.

If you are coming from Europe, there are direct flights from major cities such as London, Paris, Madrid, and Rome, among others. The flight duration from these cities is relatively short, making Marrakech a popular weekend getaway destination.

For travelers from other continents, there are connecting flights available from major hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, New York, and Casablanca. Marrakech Menara Airport is located just a few kilometers from the city center, and you can easily reach your accommodation by taxi or shuttle service.

Another option to reach Marrakech is by train. Morocco has an extensive rail network, and there are trains connecting major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fes to Marrakech. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside and is a comfortable way to travel within the country.

If you prefer a road trip, you can consider renting a car and driving to Marrakech. The roads in Morocco are well-maintained, and there are major highways connecting Marrakech to other cities. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and regulations before embarking on a road trip.

Once you arrive in Marrakech, getting around the city is relatively easy. The most common mode of transportation within the city is by taxi. You can easily find taxis on the streets, or you can opt for the more convenient option of ordering a ride through a mobile app.

For a unique experience, you can also explore the city on foot. Marrakech is compact, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking through the narrow alleys of the medina allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.

Now that you know how to get to Marrakech, it’s time to start planning your trip to this mesmerizing city. Whether you choose to fly, take the train, or embark on a road trip, get ready to immerse yourself in the colors, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant Moroccan destination.

Best Time to Visit Marrakech

Marrakech enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, but it’s important to consider the season and weather when planning your visit. The best time to visit Marrakech is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and mild.

During the spring, Marrakech is in full bloom, with colorful flowers adorning the city and the temperatures averaging between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). This is a great time to explore the outdoor attractions like the Majorelle Garden and wander around the medina without the scorching heat of the summer months.

In autumn, the weather starts to cool down, making it another ideal time to visit Marrakech. Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), and the city experiences fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. You can enjoy comfortable outdoor activities and explore the bustling souks without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.

However, if you’re a sun-seeking traveler and don’t mind the heat, you can plan your visit during the summer months (June to August). Marrakech experiences high temperatures during this time, with averages ranging from 30°C to 45°C (86°F to 113°F). This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan your activities during the cooler parts of the day.

Winter (December to February) is also a viable time to visit Marrakech, especially if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer tourists. While the days are relatively sunny with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), the evenings can get chilly, dropping to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). It’s advisable to pack layers and a light jacket for the cooler evenings.

It’s worth noting that Marrakech hosts several festivals throughout the year, which can add a unique experience to your visit. The Marrakech Popular Arts Festival takes place in July and is a celebration of Moroccan music, dance, and traditional arts. The International Film Festival in December attracts renowned filmmakers from around the world.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Marrakech depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Whether you choose to visit during the spring, autumn, summer, or winter, Marrakech will captivate you with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Marrakech offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you prefer a luxurious riad in the heart of the medina or a modern hotel in the newer parts of the city, Marrakech has something for everyone.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Marrakech, staying in a traditional riad is a must. Riads are traditional Moroccan houses turned into boutique hotels, featuring stunning architecture, peaceful courtyards, and rooftop terraces. Many riads are located within the medina, offering easy access to the bustling souks and historical attractions. Some popular riads include Riad Yasmine, Riad BE Marrakech, and Riad Dar Anika.

For a more modern and luxurious stay, there are numerous four and five-star hotels scattered throughout the city. These hotels often offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, spa facilities, and on-site restaurants. Some top-rated hotels in Marrakech include La Mamounia, Royal Mansour Marrakech, and Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech.

If you prefer a lively and energetic atmosphere, the Gueliz neighborhood is a great option. Here, you’ll find a range of mid-range and budget hotels, as well as trendy cafes, shopping centers, and art galleries. It’s a more modern part of the city, providing a different perspective on Marrakech without compromising its charm.

The Palmeraie district, located on the outskirts of Marrakech, offers a tranquil and luxurious escape from the bustling city center. This area is home to several high-end resorts and luxury villas, surrounded by palm groves and offering a serene retreat.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling on a budget or prefer a more social experience, you can consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse. Marrakech has a variety of affordable accommodations that cater to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. Hostels often offer dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces where you can meet fellow travelers and exchange stories. Some popular hostels in Marrakech include Equity Point Marrakech and Riad Lola & Demeures.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and your personal preferences. Whether you’re seeking a traditional riad experience, a luxurious hotel stay, or a budget-friendly option, Marrakech has a wide array of options to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, Marrakech will captivate you with its rich culture, vibrant atmosphere, and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions in Marrakech

Marrakech is a city that is brimming with history, culture, and stunning sights to explore. From ancient palaces to bustling markets, here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Marrakech:

• The Medina: The heart and soul of Marrakech, the medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets filled with colorful shops, handicrafts, and local vendors. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, which stands tall as a symbol of the city.
• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: Located at the entrance of the medina, Jemaa el-Fnaa is a vibrant and bustling square that comes alive with performers, musicians, henna artists, and food stalls as the sun sets. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, taste delicious Moroccan street food, and witness traditional storytellers and snake charmers.
• Majorelle Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a stroll through the peaceful Majorelle Garden. Designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the garden features a beautiful collection of exotic plants, vibrant blue buildings, and a small museum dedicated to Berber culture.
• Bahia Palace: Step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace that showcases the grandeur and beauty of Moroccan architecture. Meander through the intricately decorated courtyards, visit the luxurious rooms, and admire the exquisite mosaic work.
• Saadian Tombs: Discover the hidden treasure of Marrakech at the Saadian Tombs. Dating back to the 16th century, these tombs were rediscovered in 1917 and showcase exquisite craftsmanship and intricate tilework. Marvel at the beautifully decorated mausoleums and the tranquil garden surrounding them.
• El Badi Palace: Explore the ruins of the once grand El Badi Palace, which now stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history. Climb to the top of the ancient walls to enjoy panoramic views of Marrakech, and imagine the grandeur that once filled this palatial complex.
• Koranic School of Ben Youssef: Step into the past at the Koranic School of Ben Youssef, one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa. Admire the stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and the peaceful atmosphere of this historical site.
• Atlas Mountains: Escape the city and embark on a day trip to the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Just a short drive from Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking scenery, traditional Berber villages, and opportunities for hiking, trekking, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Morocco.
• Menara Gardens: Enjoy a moment of tranquility at the Menara Gardens, located just outside the city center. Stroll around the expansive garden, centered around a large reflecting pool, and marvel at the views of the Atlas Mountains.
• Souks: Dive into the sensory overload of the Marrakech souks. These bustling markets are a shopper’s paradise, filled with a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, ceramics, leather goods, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts. Practice your negotiation skills to get the best deals and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Marrakech has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites, indulging in mouth-watering Moroccan cuisine, or getting lost in the narrow alleys of the medina, Marrakech will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Exploring the Medina

The medina of Marrakech is a captivating maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and ancient architecture, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Exploring the medina is like stepping back in time, where the traditions of the past blend harmoniously with the modern influences of today.

As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, prepare to be enchanted by the sights, sounds, and aromas that fill the air. Admire the intricate tilework, carved wooden doors, and ornate stucco decorations that adorn the buildings, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans.

One of the highlights of the medina is the bustling souks, where you can find a myriad of treasures waiting to be discovered. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleyways, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you browse through a wide range of goods, including traditional textiles, leather goods, spices, ceramics, and jewelry. Don’t forget to hone your bargaining skills as haggling is a common practice in the souks.

Among the souks, you’ll find the famous spice market, where piles of vibrant spices, dried fruits, and aromatic teas dazzle the senses. Let the enticing scents guide you through the market and consider purchasing some traditional Moroccan spices to take home with you.

Another must-see in the medina is the Koutoubia Mosque. With its towering minaret, the Koutoubia Mosque is an iconic landmark of Marrakech and serves as a reminder of the city’s strong Islamic heritage. Although non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque, you can appreciate its beauty from the outside and listen to the melodic calls to prayer echoing through the medina.

As you explore the medina, you’ll stumble upon hidden gems, such as the Mouassine Mosque and its beautiful courtyard, the peaceful Dar Si Said Museum, and the Maison de la Photographie, where you can discover a fascinating collection of historical photographs depicting life in Morocco over the years.

To escape the bustling streets, take a moment to relax in one of the traditional riads scattered throughout the medina. These peaceful oases offer a serene retreat from the busy city, where you can unwind in tranquil courtyards and enjoy a cup of refreshing mint tea.

Exploring the medina of Marrakech is a sensory adventure that will transport you to another time and place. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, interact with the friendly locals, and embrace the unique charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visiting the Majorelle Garden

Step into a world of botanical beauty and tranquility at the Majorelle Garden, an enchanting oasis nestled within the bustling city of Marrakech. Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this botanical garden is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

The Majorelle Garden is a haven of lush greenery, vibrant blue buildings, and serene pools that create a serene and captivating atmosphere. As you enter through the iconic blue gate, you’ll be greeted by a landscape of exotic plants from all corners of the world, including cacti, bamboo, palm trees, and colorful flowers.

Wander along the meandering paths, taking in the sights and sounds of nature, and discover hidden corners of tranquility. The garden provides plenty of shaded nooks where you can sit and relax, immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One of the highlights of the Majorelle Garden is the striking Villa Oasis, which houses the Berber Museum. Explore the museum to learn about the indigenous Berber people and their rich cultural heritage through a collection of artifacts, textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts.

The vibrant blue building that serves as the focal point of the garden is known as the “Majorelle Blue.” This particular shade of blue is synonymous with the garden and has become an iconic symbol of Marrakech. The bold blue color creates a striking contrast against the greenery, making it a perfect backdrop for photos and a visual feast for the eyes.

Another highlight of the Majorelle Garden is the small but captivating Islamic Art Museum. Housed within a charming pavilion, the museum showcases a collection of ceramics, textiles, and artwork representing various periods and regions of Islamic art. The intricate designs and stunning craftsmanship on display provide insight into the cultural heritage of Morocco and the Islamic world.

To complete your visit, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the boutique located within the garden. Here, you can find a range of high-quality products inspired by Moroccan and Berber design, including clothing, accessories, and decorative objects. It’s a perfect place to find unique souvenirs or to simply indulge in some retail therapy.

Visiting the Majorelle Garden is a serene and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring the diverse plant life, admiring the iconic blue architecture, or delving into the rich cultural history within the museum, this botanical oasis will transport you to a world of beauty and tranquility.

Experiencing Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

No visit to Marrakech is complete without immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the beating heart of the city. This bustling square, located at the entrance of the medina, is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavors that will leave you captivated.

Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive as the sun sets, transforming into a lively open-air theater where local performers, musicians, and storytellers gather to entertain the crowds. As you stroll through the square, you’ll encounter acrobats, snake charmers, henna artists, and traditional musicians, each showcasing their unique talents.

The square is a hub of activity and an excellent vantage point for people-watching and soaking up the vibrant street life of Marrakech. You’ll witness the buzz of locals and tourists mingling, food vendors sizzling up traditional Moroccan delicacies, and the constant rhythm of life in the city.

One of the highlights of Jemaa el-Fnaa is the mouthwatering street food. Tantalize your taste buds with an array of Moroccan culinary delights, from savory tagines and grilled meats to flavorful couscous and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Indulge in local specialties like Moroccan pastries, barbecued skewers, and the famous orange and avocado juice available from the numerous stalls.

For a truly immersive experience, venture into one of the many rooftop restaurants surrounding the square. From these elevated vantage points, you can savor delicious traditional dishes while marveling at the energetic scene below, with the distant sound of music and the aroma of food wafting through the air.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Jemaa el-Fnaa, you’ll find an array of market stalls offering an assortment of goods. From colorful textiles and leather bags to intricate metalwork and authentic Moroccan crafts, the market is a shopper’s paradise. Practice your negotiation skills and haggle for the best prices, but be prepared for the lively banter and friendly salesmanship that is synonymous with Moroccan markets.

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is also a gateway to the enchanting maze of the medina. From here, you can venture into the narrow alleyways, exploring the souks and discovering hidden gems along the way. Take a leisurely stroll through the medina, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and get lost in the myriad of sights and sounds that make Marrakech truly unique.

Visiting Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is an experience that will ignite your senses and stay with you long after you leave Marrakech. Embrace the energy, embrace the diversity, and embrace the magic that can only be found in this captivating square.

Discovering the Bahia Palace

Step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace and immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of Moroccan architecture. Located in the heart of Marrakech, this magnificent 19th-century palace is a must-visit attraction that showcases the splendor of Moroccan craftsmanship and design.

As you enter the palace, you’ll be greeted by lush gardens, tranquil courtyards, and intricately carved wooden doors that lead to beautifully decorated rooms. The name “Bahia” translates to “brilliance,” and the palace lives up to its name with its stunning combination of Islamic and Moroccan architectural styles.

Originally built for Si Moussa, a former slave who rose to become the vizier of the sultan, the Bahia Palace was later expanded upon by his son Ba Ahmed, who added more extensive sections to the palace complex. The result is a sprawling masterpiece that is spread across a vast area.

As you wander through the palace, marvel at the elaborate stucco work, hand-painted ceilings, and the intricate zellige tilework that adorns the walls and floors. Each room tells a story of the luxury and opulence enjoyed by the families who once lived within its walls.

Some of the must-see areas within the Bahia Palace include the Grand Courtyard with its central fountain, surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful flower beds. The harem quarters, with their private gardens, offer a glimpse into the secluded world of the palace’s women.

Another highlight is the Council Chamber, an exquisitely decorated room adorned with ornate chandeliers and stunning stained glass windows. This chamber is a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who worked on the palace.

As you explore the palace, take a moment to pause in the peaceful courtyards, where you can admire the intricate details, listen to the soothing sounds of the water features, and appreciate the tranquility away from the bustling streets of Marrakech.

Visiting the Bahia Palace is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the extravagant lives of Morocco’s elite. The palace allows you to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship of the country.

Make sure to allocate plenty of time for your visit to fully explore the palace and soak up its beauty. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a serene escape, the Bahia Palace will leave you awe-struck and inspired by its timeless elegance.

Enjoying Traditional Moroccan Cuisine

Indulging in the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine is an essential part of any visit to Marrakech. The country’s culinary traditions are a delightful blend of aromatic spices, succulent meats, and vibrant fruits, creating a rich tapestry of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

One of the signature dishes of Morocco is the tagine, a slow-cooked stew that derives its name from the conical clay pot in which it’s cooked. Tagines are made with a variety of ingredients, such as tender meats, aromatic vegetables, and an array of spices, resulting in a delectable and fragrant dish. Try the traditional lamb tagine or the vegetarian-friendly options like vegetable tagine or the popular tagine with preserved lemons and olives.

Couscous is another staple in Moroccan cuisine and is often considered the national dish. Made from finely ground semolina, couscous is usually served with a flavorful broth and a selection of vegetables and meats. The couscous is steamed to perfection, creating light and fluffy grains that soak up the delicious flavors of the accompanying ingredients.

Moroccan cuisine also showcases a variety of savory pastries and street food. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the famous Moroccan street food snack, the delicious and satisfying “b’stilla”. This pastry is filled with layers of flaky pastry, spiced meat (usually chicken, pigeon, or fish), and a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar, creating a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

For those with a sweet tooth, Moroccan desserts will not disappoint. Treat yourself to traditional pastries such as “m’hanncha” (a coiled almond pastry) or “chebakia” (a fried sesame-coated cookie). Finish your meal with a cup of refreshing mint tea, a staple in Moroccan culture and a symbol of hospitality.

As you wander through the bustling streets of Marrakech, you’ll come across numerous food stalls and restaurants offering an array of Moroccan delicacies. Visit the food stalls at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where you can sample an assortment of authentic street food, including grilled meats, aromatic spices, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.

For a more refined dining experience, visit one of Marrakech’s many restaurants that offer traditional Moroccan cuisine. These establishments often provide a cozy and elegant atmosphere, complete with richly adorned interiors and attentive service. Don’t be shy to try unfamiliar dishes and ask for recommendations from the friendly staff.

During your culinary journey in Marrakech, be prepared to indulge in the hearty flavors of Moroccan cuisine and embrace the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. From the aromatic spices to the rich and satisfying dishes, traditional Moroccan cuisine is truly a feast for the senses.

Shopping in Marrakech

Shopping in Marrakech is a vibrant and immersive experience that will delight any avid shopper or curious traveler. The city is renowned for its bustling souks, where you can find a treasure trove of traditional Moroccan goods and immerse yourself in the local culture.

One of the most iconic shopping destinations in Marrakech is the Medina, particularly the labyrinthine streets of the souks. Here, you’ll find a myriad of stalls and shops offering an array of goods, including textiles, leather goods, spices, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts.

The souks are a sensory overload of colors, scents, and sounds. Navigate your way through the bustling alleys, bargaining with friendly shopkeepers, and discovering unique items along the way. Take your time to explore the different sections of the souks, each dedicated to a specific craft, such as the leather souk, the carpet souk, or the spice souk.

When shopping in the souks, it’s important to embrace the art of negotiation. Haggling is a common practice in Moroccan markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for the best prices. Remember to approach the process with a friendly and respectful attitude, and be prepared to meet in the middle to reach a fair deal.

If you’re looking for a more modern shopping experience, Marrakech also offers several shopping malls and boutiques. The Gueliz neighborhood is a popular area for modern shopping, with its trendy boutiques, designer stores, and stylish galleries. Here, you can find a mix of international and local brands, as well as contemporary fashion, homeware, and accessories.

For those interested in traditional Moroccan crafts, a visit to the Ensemble Artisanal is a must. This government-run artisan complex offers a selection of high-quality crafts, including handwoven textiles, intricate woodwork, ceramics, and metalwork. You can directly support local artisans here and have the opportunity to watch them work on their crafts.

When shopping in Marrakech, keep in mind a few useful tips. Be prepared to bring cash as many small shops in the medina may not accept card payments. It’s also a good idea to carry a bag or backpack to store your purchases, and be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.

Lastly, shopping in Marrakech is not just about acquiring souvenirs or material items, but also about immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture and supporting the talented artisans who keep traditional crafts alive.

Whether you’re hunting for unique treasures in the bustling souks or exploring the modern boutiques in Gueliz, shopping in Marrakech is an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and one-of-a-kind souvenirs of your Moroccan journey.

Day Trips from Marrakech

While Marrakech offers an abundance of captivating sights and experiences, venturing beyond the city on a day trip allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that Morocco has to offer. From stunning natural wonders to historical landmarks, here are some of the top day trips you can embark on from Marrakech.

Atlas Mountains: Escape the bustling city and venture into the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Just a short drive from Marrakech, this mountain range offers breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages, and opportunities for hiking or trekking. Explore the Ourika Valley, Imlil, or the Ouzoud Waterfalls for an unforgettable experience amidst stunning landscapes.

Essaouira: A visit to the charming coastal town of Essaouira is a popular day trip option. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sandy beaches, and vibrant blue and white medina, Essaouira offers a refreshing change of pace. Stroll along the historic ramparts, enjoy fresh seafood at the port, and soak in the artistic vibes that have attracted musicians and artists to this charming seaside town.

Ouarzazate: Embark on a journey to the “Gateway to the Sahara” – Ouarzazate. Located at the edge of the desert, this city is home to the exquisite Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a backdrop to many famous films and television shows. Explore the labyrinth of narrow alleys, admire the stunning architecture, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient fortified village.

High Atlas Berber Villages: Discover the unique Berber culture by visiting the traditional villages nestled in the High Atlas Mountains. Take a journey to remote settlements such as Imlil, Aroumd, or Amizmiz, and experience the hospitality of the locals. Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch, hike through scenic landscapes, and learn about the ancient customs and traditions of the Berber people.

Agafay Desert: Experience the desert landscape without venturing too far from Marrakech by visiting the Agafay Desert, also known as the “Desert of Marrakech”. Explore the vast expanse of golden sand dunes, enjoy camel rides, and savor a traditional Berber tea in a desert camp. This is a perfect option for those looking to have a taste of the desert experience within a short distance from the city.

These are just a few examples of the incredible day trip options available from Marrakech. Whether you choose to explore the majestic Atlas Mountains, stroll along the captivating Essaouira coastline, or delve into the rich history of Ouarzazate, each day trip will offer you a new perspective on the beauty and diversity of Morocco.

With so many diverse and fascinating destinations within reach, day trips from Marrakech are a fantastic way to complement your city adventure and create lasting memories of your journey through this enchanting country.

Safety Tips for Travelers in Marrakech

Marrakech is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s always essential to take precautions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. Here are some safety tips to consider when visiting Marrakech:

• Be cautious of your belongings: Like in any city, be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to use anti-theft bags or keep your valuables close to you. Avoid displaying expensive items, and always be aware of your surroundings.
• Dress modestly: Morocco has a conservative culture, and it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and public places. Avoid overly revealing clothing and respect the local customs and traditions.
• Negotiate prices: Haggling is part of the Moroccan culture, particularly in the souks. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices for goods and services. However, be fair and respectful during the process.
• Use reputable taxis: When taking taxis, choose official taxis with the meter running or agree on a price in advance. Avoid unmarked or unofficial taxis, as they may overcharge or take longer routes.
• Drink bottled water: As tap water may not be safe to drink, it’s best to stick to bottled water and avoid consuming drinks with ice from unknown sources. Stay hydrated, especially during hot days, and carry a bottle of water with you.
• Plan ahead and use official guides: If you’re interested in taking tours or hiring guides, opt for licensed and reputable operators. Research and plan your activities in advance to ensure you choose trusted providers.
• Stay alert in busy areas: Places like Jemaa el-Fnaa Square can get crowded, so stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings. Be cautious of individuals trying to sell or offer services aggressively, as they may become persistent if declined.
• Follow local customs and traditions: Respect the local culture by observing customs and traditions. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in establishing goodwill with locals.
• Know emergency numbers and embassy information: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, including those for the police and medical services. Also, make note of your embassy’s contact information in case of any emergency or assistance needed.
• Trust your instincts: Trust your instincts and use common sense throughout your trip. If a situation or place feels uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s best to remove yourself from it.

By practicing these safety tips, you can enjoy your time in Marrakech with peace of mind and make the most of your experience in this captivating Moroccan city.

Marrakech is a city that captivates visitors with its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling markets of the medina to the tranquil gardens and historic palaces, Marrakech offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

Throughout this ultimate travel guide, we have explored the best time to visit Marrakech, where to stay, top attractions, and must-try experiences. We’ve provided insight into the enchanting medina, the magnificent Majorelle Garden, the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the opulent Bahia Palace, and the tantalizing world of traditional Moroccan cuisine.

We have also discussed opportunities for day trips, allowing you to venture beyond the city and discover the stunning Atlas Mountains, charming Essaouira, historical Ouarzazate, thriving Berber villages, and the nearby Agafay Desert.

While exploring Marrakech, it’s important to prioritize your safety by being mindful of your belongings, respecting local customs, and staying alert in busy areas. By following the provided safety tips and planning ahead, you can navigate the city with confidence and peace of mind.

Marrakech is a city that stimulates all the senses, from the vibrant colors and aromatic spices to the sounds of laughter and music that fill the air. It’s a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with the modern world, offering a unique and immersive experience for travelers.

So, whether you’re strolling through the labyrinthine souks, sipping mint tea in a traditional riad, or marveling at the intricate architecture, Marrakech will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Pack your bags, open your mind, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure in the enchanting city of Marrakech. Allow yourself to be swept away by the magic, warmth, and timeless beauty of Morocco.

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Your 4-day itinerary for exploring the best of Marrakech

Destinations

Joanna Horanin

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Weather in Morocco

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Last updated at 07/09/2024, 06:00

Hi, I'm Joanna, the author of The Blond Travels. In the worlds of Thailand and Portugal, I feel like a fish in water - and it's no coincidence! I've been exploring Thailand for over a decade, and I've settled in Portugal for 6 years now. My mission is to support Dreamers - just like you - in discovering these fascinating countries and helping those in love with them find their own place on Earth, preferably for good! Let's uncover these unique corners of the world together.

If Marrakech is on your list of places to visit, then you might want to prepare well for the trip. The Red City is full of wonders and you will have the best time if you know where to go and what to do. I spent a week there and prepared a full itinerary for a visit to Marrakech. Here’s all the information you need to for a nice stay in this amazing city. 

Morocco was never really on my list of places to visit, but as soon as I saw really cheap tickets, I decided to buy them and see what this country has to offer. I have seen a lot of pictures on Instagram from Marrakech. It seemed like it was a very lively and colourful city. As it was my first time on an African continent, I decided to properly prepare for the trip there. So, I made some research, drew a plan for a whole week and followed it. I think the below itinerary for Marrakech will be very useful for those that come to the Red City for the first time. 

Marrakech is every traveler’s dream. If you give it a chance, it will mesmerise you with its scents, sounds, food, and colours . You will be amazed by it, I guarantee you. Just take it easy and allow yourself to get used to the hawkers, the traffic and the noise. Once you settle in, you will love Marrakech. Here’s what you need to know before you visit and your plan for a couple of days. 

Have you read the practical information about Marrakesh? No? Read now and find out what you need to know before you go!

Your itinerary for 4 days in Marrakech 

So, you have read all the prcatical information on Marrakesh and are ready to explore. Great! I spent a week, so I drew up a plan for you for a couple of days. Let me know in the comments what you think!

Day 1: Medina and Jamaa El-Fna Square 

Let’s take it easy! Your first day is all about getting used to the place. Spend your time walking around the Medina – the old city. Discover the stalls full of lanterns, colorful clothes, food, spices and everything else on the planet. Don’t rush anywhere. 

When you reach the Jamaa El-Fna Square , take your time and have a good look around. During the day it’s full of street performances. There are monkeys, snakes, live Berber music, henna artists. You can also buy some spices and herbs, or sweets (although I think they are all slightly overpriced). 

If you want to experience the Medina and the souks like a local, you can hire a guid that will show you the real side of it and will take you to the most unique places. Have a look at the tour with Withlocals!

Next, there is the Kotoubia Mosque – the most important and the oldest mosque in the country. It measures 77 meters. Next to it there are ruins of a mosque that stood there before.

Straight after the mosque you will find a beautiful park, where you can sit down and buy some mint tea from a local vendor. 

In the evening wander off to the main square again. You can eat something at a street stall and then watch the square from above from one of the nearby restaurants.

Day 2: Sadiaan Tombs and the palaces 

Do you like history and architecture? Marrakesh will be a paradise for you! 

Early in the morning head to Bahiia Palace . It’s one of the most beautiful places in Marrakech. It’s also one of the most popular ones. That’s why it’s worth coming here very early. Bahiia Place was built in the 19th century and was intended to be the greatest palace of its time. 

Opening times: 9:00 – 17:00 Entrance fee:  70 Dirham per person

Just around the corner you will find the Sadiaan Tombs , another amazing place. It is small and has only a couple of rooms, but it’s worth to come here to see the Moroccan architecture at its finest. 

Opening times: 9:00-17:00 Entrance fee:  70 Dirham per person 

Walk to Badii Palace – ruins that come from the 16th century. It’s a very interesting complex that is slowly being renovated. Some of its parts are under excavation and you can see how huge it used to be. It’s a nice place to wander around. There are some hidden rooms and a viewpoint, too. 

Explore the area around these attractions. There are some nice streets and markets, where not many tourists go. I especially liked the Jardin Sidi Hmed El Kamel – a little square with cafes and street stalls.

Make your holidays even more memorable! Go off the beaten path, discover all the hidden gems, eat where the locals eat. Get Your Guide organise custom tours with independent guides to create really special memories for you.  Book your tour now! 

Day 3: Venture out to the mountains 

The trip to the Atlas Mountains was one of the best I have ever taken, hands down. It was so nice to get away from the city and just enjoy nature. The mountains are amazing and I really recommend taking a tour, or going on your own. 

There are many tours on offer. You can go for a day, or a few days, you can climb the highest peak and you can go for a ride in a car. Whatever you decide to do, I’m sure it will be awesome.

Day 4: Mellah, Le Jardin Majorelle and Hammam 

Mellah is a Jewish quarter and I decided to put it in the itinerary for Marrakech because this area of the city is still not that commercialised. 

You can walk around here for hours. Some parts don’t even have a pavement and the markets are set up on a dusty ground. I really enjoyed this area. It’s a great place to visit if you want to see how the locals live. 

Nearby there is a big Jewish cemetery and a synagogue, which are open to visitors. 

If you’re looking for spices and tea, go to the spices souk, which is in the same area. It’s the best place for buying some things to take home.

From there you can either walk, or take a taxi, to Jardin de Majorelle — a garden and a museum now owned by the designer Ives Saint Laurent. Now, I would recommend it to those that like fashion and would like to have some nice pictures for Instagram. Otherwise, I don’t know if it’s such a good spot to visit. 

Have a look at other gardens and parks in Marrakesh and explore the city on a bike. This guided tour in Marrakesh will take you to the most extraordinary and beautiful places. 

Opening time: 8:00-17:30 Entrance fee:  70 Dirham per person 

Finish your day off with a massage and spa treatment at a hammam. Hammam is a traditional bath house. There are a lot of them in the city. You can go to the one that locals go, or you try out something a little bit more fancy . 

One of my students recommended me Rosa Bonheur, where I had a hammam treatment, including a body scrub, a mask and a sauna for 300 Dirham. It was really worth the price! 

An extra day? Go to Essaouira

You can make a one day trip to Essaouira . It’s a little coastal town, only 2-3 hours drive from Marrakech. There are a few attractions, including a very local port and some great seafood restaurants and bars.

You can leave Marrakech in the morning and come back in the evening.

Where to eat in Marrakech?

There are plenty of great places to eat in Marrakech . During my stay, I visited quite a few of them and tried a variety of dishes. I wish I had had more time for exploring Moroccan cuisine. 

My favourite place to eat was Cafe Souk, where I used their special offer and ordered 3 dishes and a drink for 130 Dirham. Chicken tajine was to die for! 

I also recommend Clock Cafe, not only for their delicious food, but also for evening entertainment. 

Remember to order mint tea at the end of every meal. It’s a great finish to your dining experience. 

Where to stay in Marrakech? 

Hotels, hostels and riads – you will find many accommodation options in Marrakech . I stayed in Riad Dar Nael , which was a lovely place and I highly recommend it. It has 2 terraces with a view over the city and the mountains, a small swimming pool, very friendly staff and, most of all, comfortable rooms. It’s a great value for money! 

That’s it! That’s the itinerary for 4 days in Marrakech. I hope you will enjoy your stay in the Red City. Don’t forget to come back and let me know in the comments how it was and if you liked it!

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Marrakesh Travel Guide

TripSavvy / Chris VR 

Situated at the foot of the Atlas mountains, the imperial city of Marrakesh is large, noisy, polluted and smelly. But Marrakesh is also fascinating, full of history, the cultural center of Morocco and beautiful. If you enjoy a daily assault on all your senses then you'll have a lot of fun. When the most popular sights include numerous references to "tranquility" and "peace" like the Majorelle gardens or the gardens around the Saadian Tombs you know you're in for an interesting experience. If you find it a little overwhelming then get an official guide to take you around.

There are so many things to see, you should spend at least 3 days in Marrakesh. If you can afford it, treat yourself to a stay in a Riad so when you return from a hectic day amidst carpet salesman, fire jugglers and noisy souqs, you can relax and have a cup of mint tea in a nice quiet courtyard.

This guide to Marrakesh will help you figure out the best time to go; the best sights to see; how to get to Marrakesh and how to get around; and where to stay.

When to Go to Marrakesh

It is best to try and avoid the summer heat and crowds and visit Marrakesh in the cooler months between September and May. But, some annual events take place in summer which you may not want to miss.

• Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival in July. This annual festival attracts folk singers, dancers, fortune-tellers, acting troupes, snake charmers, fire-swallowers and more, from all over Morocco. Since 2000 the festival has also attracted many artists and entertainers from Europe and Asia. The main events take place in the ruins of the 16 century Badi Palace and the Djemma el Fna (main town square - see below).
• Fantasia is a horse-riding spectacle that includes hundreds of charging horsemen (and women) wearing traditional clothing. It's part of the Popular Arts Festival so it takes place at the same time in July. You can experience the Fantasia in the evenings outside the city walls near the Bab Jdid. If you don't get to see it in July, there's a restaurant that offers the Fantasia as entertainment while you dine, the Chez Ali . Up-market and touristy but I'm sure you won't forget the experience in a hurry.
• Imilchil Marriage Feast is a Berber marriage festival where up to forty couples tie the knot. It takes place in Imilchil in the Middle-High Atlas Mountains near Marrakesh. The festival is a great way to experience Berber culture including music and dance. The event takes place after harvest every year so the dates vary, it's usually held late August or early September.

Winter in Marrakech From mid-January to mid-February there is usually enough snowfall in the Atlas mountains to accommodate skiers . The Oukaimden ski resort is less than 50 miles away from Marrakech. There are several ski lifts and if they don't work you can always take a donkey up the slopes. If there's not enough snow the views are always spectacular and it's still worth the trip.

What to See in Marrakech

Djemma el Fna The Djemma el Fna is really the heart of Marrakech. It is a large central square in the old city (Medina) and during the day it's a perfect place to grab a freshly-squeezed orange juice and a handful of dates. At the end of the afternoon, the Djemma el Fna transforms into an entertainers paradise -- if you're into snake charming, juggling, music and that sort of thing. Snack stalls are replaced with stalls offering more substantial fare and the square comes alive with entertainment that hasn't changed much since medieval times.

The Djemma el Fna is surrounded by cafe's overlooking the square so you can just relax and watch the world go by if you're tired of jostling the crowds below. Be prepared to be asked for money when you take photos of the performers and stop to watch the entertainment.

Souqs The souqs are basically undercover markets that sell everything from chickens to high-quality crafts. The souqs of Marrakech are considered to be among the best in Morocco, so if you like  shopping and bargaining  you'll enjoy yourself tremendously. Even if you don't like shopping, the souqs are a cultural experience you wouldn't want to miss. Souqs are divided into small areas that specialize in a certain good or trade. The metal workers all have their little shops clustered together, as do the tailors, butchers, jewelers, wool dyers, spice merchants, carpet salesmen and so on.

The souqs are situated north of the Djemma el Fna and finding your way around the narrow alleyways can be a bit tricky. Guides are plentiful in Marrakech, so you can always use those services, but getting lost in the chaos is also part of the fun. It's often more interesting to peek into souqs where local wares are being produced than to be taken to yet another carpet shop by your guide. If you get lost, just ask for directions back to the Djemma el Fna.

Majorelle Gardens and the Museum of Islamic Art In the 1920's, French artists Jacques and Louis Majorelle created a stunning garden in the middle of Marrakech's new town. The Majorelle gardens are filled with color, plants of all shapes and sizes, flowers, fish ponds and perhaps the most pleasing aspect, tranquility. The designer Yves Saint Laurent now owns the gardens and has also built himself a house on the property. The building that gets most of the attention, however, is the bright blue and yellow building the Marjorelles used as their studio and which now houses the  Museum of Islamic Art . This small museum includes some good examples of Moroccan tribal art, carpets, jeweler, and pottery. The gardens and museum are  open daily  with a 2-hour lunch break from 12-2pm.

Saadian Tombs The Saadian dynasty ruled much of southern Morocco during the 16th and 17th centuries. Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour created these tombs for himself and his family in the late 16th century, 66 of them are buried here. The tombs were sealed up rather than destroyed in the 17th century and were only re-discovered in 1917. Consequently, they are beautifully preserved and the intricate mosaic is stunning. Despite being situated in the heart of the somewhat hectic old town (medina) the tombs are surrounded by a nice peaceful garden. The tombs are open daily except for Tuesday. It's advisable to get there early and avoid the tour groups.

The Ramparts of Marrakech The walls of the Medina have been standing since the 13th century and make for a wonderful early morning stroll. Each gate is a work of art in themselves and the walls run for twelve miles. The Bab ed-Debbagh gate is the entry point for the  tanneries  and provides an excellent photo opportunity full of vivid colors from the dyes used. It is a little smelly though.

Palais Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts) A palace and museum in one and well worth a visit. The palace is opulent and beautiful in itself with a lovely courtyard where you can relax and take some pictures. The museum's displays are well laid out and include jewelry, costumes, ceramics, daggers and other artifacts. The museum is open daily with a couple of hours break for lunch.

Ali ben Youssef Medersa and Mosque The Medersa was built in the 16th century by the Saadians and could house up to 900 religious students. The architecture is beautifully preserved and you can explore the tiny rooms where the students used to live. The mosque is adjacent to the Medersa.

El Bahia Palace This palace is a wonderful example of the best of Moroccan architecture. There's lots of detail, arches, light, engravings and what's more, it was built as a harem's residence, which makes it even more interesting. The palace is open daily with a break for lunch although it is closed when the royal family visits.

Getting to Marrakech

By Air Marrakech has an international airport with direct scheduled flights coming in from London and Paris and many charter flights arriving from all over Europe. If you are flying from the US, Canada, Asia or elsewhere, you'll have to change planes in  Casablanca . The airport is only about 4 miles (15 minutes) from the city and buses, as well as taxis, operate throughout the day. You should set the taxi fare before you get in. The major car rental companies are represented at the airport.

By Train Trains  run regularly between Marrakech and Casablanca . The trip takes about 3 hours. If you want to go to Fez, Tangier or Meknes then you can take the train through Rabat (4 hours from Marrakech). There is also an  overnight train  between Tangier and Marrakech. It's best to take a taxi to the train station in Marrakech since it's quite far from the old town (if that's where you're staying).

By Bus There are three national bus companies that operate between Marrakech and most major towns and cities in Morocco. They are Supratours, CTM and SATAS. According to recent traveller accounts on VirtualTourist.com SATAS doesn't have a very good reputation. Long-distance buses are comfortable and usually air-conditioned. You can buy your tickets at the bus depot. Supratours buses are handy if you are travelling onward by train since they stop at the Marrakech train station. The other bus companies arrive and depart from the long distance bus station near Bab Doukkala, a 20-minute walk from Jema el-Fna.

Getting Around Marrakech

The best way to see Marrakech is on foot especially in the Medina. But it's a sizable town and you'll probably want to make use of some of the following options:

• Taxis  are readily available throughout town and probably the most efficient way of getting to the main sites.  Grand taxis  are old Mercedes cars that carry up to six people for a fixed fare. They usually keep to specific routes and you'll find them at the bus station, Djemaa el Fna and the main Post Office in Gueliz (new town).  Petit taxis  are a little more expensive but you get it to yourself and they'll take you anywhere you want to go. The meters aren't always used so either ask the driver to switch it on or bargain for your fare before you hop in. Ask your hotel staff what a reasonable fare is if you know where you're going. Petit taxis in Marrakech are usually beige and you can just flag them down.
• Caleche  is a horse-drawn carriage and a popular way to get around Marrakech. There are set prices for the more common routes, around the ramparts for example, but for other routes, you'll have to bargain with the driver. Set the price before you hop in. You can catch a Caleche in the garden square between the Koutoubia Mosque and Djemaa el Fna, El Badi Palace and the more expensive hotels.
• Buses  within the town are frequent and cheap but can get crowded. The central bus station, Place El Mouarabitene is just outside Bab Doukkala on the northwestern edge of the old city. You can pay the bus driver directly. The no 8 will take you to the train station; the no 10 to the central bus station and the no 1 travels between the Medina and Gueliz (new town). Most buses will stop at the Djemaa-el-Fna
• Moped or Bicycle  is also a popular way to get around Marrakech and you can cycle within the medina which is handy. Check out  Maroc deux Roues  to get an idea about rates.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Riads One of the most sought-after accommodations in Marrakech is a  Riad , a traditional Moroccan house situated in the Medina (old town). All riads have a central courtyard that will often have a fountain, restaurant or a pool. Some riads also have rooftop terraces where you can eat breakfast and look out over the city. A comprehensive list of riads in Marrakech including photos and prices can be found on the Riad Marrakech website . Riads are not all expensive, check out the  Maison Mnabha ,  Dar Mouassine  and the  Hotel Sherazade  where you can stay in style but pay less.

There are two Riads in Marrakech of note:

• La Maison Arabe ; a luxury riad in the heart of the Marrakech Medina. Famous for its restaurant it also offers 13 rooms overlooking two courtyards and a beautiful hammam (traditional Moroccan sauna). You can catch hourly shuttles to the hotel's cooking school (20 minutes away) with swimming pool and gardens. Check rates and reviews.
• Riad Kniza ; situated in the heart of Marrakech's Medina just a few minutes walk from the Djemma el Fna (the main square). This small, romantic, beautifully furnished traditional Riad has 7 rooms, two lounges, a courtyard and several patios. The owner is an antique dealer and extremely knowledgeable about Marrakech. The Riad Kniza comes very highly recommended with glowing  reviews  from all who stay here.

Hotels Marrakech has lots of  luxury hotels  available including the famous La Mamounia, featured in the  Sex and the City 2  movie and which Winston Churchill described as "the most beautiful place in the world". There are also several popular chain hotels like the  Le Meridien , and  Sofitel . These hotels are often housed in historic buildings and retain the Moroccan character and style. 

Budget hotels  are also plentiful and Bootsnall has a decent listing of affordable options. Since many of the smaller budget hotels won't have websites or online booking facilities you should get a good guidebook, like the Lonely Planet and follow their recommendations. Most budget accommodation is situated south of the Djemaa el Fna.

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Marrakech travel blog — the fullest marrakech travel guide for first-timers.

With unique cultural features, Marrakech (Marrakesh) Morocco is the place for you to have many interesting discoveries about this North African country. There are a lot of things to start with Morocco but since Marrakech is one of my first destinations, I will give you an overview of my trip to Marrakech. So, is Marrakech worth visiting, what to do in Marrakesh and how to plan a budget trip to Marrakech perfectly? Let’s check out our Marrakech travel blog (Marrakesh blog) with the fullest Marrakech travel guide (guide to Marrakesh, Marrakesh tourist guide, Marrakech city guide, Marrakech guide, Marrakech tourist guide, Marrakesh guide) from how to get Marrakech, best places to do, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Marrakech to help you maximize your trip as follows!

• What to buy in Morocco? — Top 17+ souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Morocco
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If you like the mystery and vibrant, a bit ancient, you will definitely like Marrakech. However, Morocco is not a developed country and modern civilization like Singapore or European countries, but this is a country for those who love to explore, experience and study because I think it’s a bit ancient and has a wild look.

Overview of Marrakech (#guide to marrakesh)

As one of the most beautiful and appealing cities in Morocco, Marrakech is a must-visit when traveling to North Africa. This city of over thousands of years was once a thriving city, a great shopping place and home to some of the most stunning architectures that you’ll hard to find anywhere else in the world. The Moroccan city of Marrakech is also famous for its beautiful, magnificent riads (hotels often converted from traditional houses in the past) and you’ll find great little shops dotted the winding streets throughout its Medina (Old Town).

Marrakech is the country’s fourth largest city, after Casablanca, Fes and Tangier. Marrakesh, located in the southwest, was once the capital of Morocco, playing an important role in the trans-Saharan trade route. The history of formation and development of Marrakesh goes through many periods. Since the 13th century, Marrakesh was no longer the capital, but is still one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, an important commercial center. Marrakesh is also one of Morocco’s art cities, a national and international tourist destination.

Until now, it’s still a pearl of the Orient as it was centuries ago, Marrakech attracts all kinds of visitors. There are few places where red is so overwhelming as in Marrakesh, houses, walls, even the streets are painted pink or red. Perhaps that’s why it dubbed the “red city”. I don’t know if it’s because of that bright color or not, but everyone who comes here has a feeling of optimism and joy. Here, everyone will find something interesting for themselves.

Marrakech is a favorite place for both backpackers, snacking in roadside stalls at the square and sleeping on bunk beds in budget inns to Hollywood stars who have their own rooms in splendid, luxury hotels.

When to visit? (#marrakech travel blog)

The time I went was summer and on their second big holiday – Aid el Kebir, which usually falls in July/August. This holiday season is when each family raises one sheep (the poorer family will raise a goat) and then slaughter it and give it to family, friends, and neighbors. Because wherever I go, there were people with their goats and sheep, which I admit is very foul. Just like Tet in Vietnam, at this time everyone is returning home, so bus tickets sell out quickly.

If I have a chance to go next time, I will try to avoid these holidays. In addition, you can go in other months that are quite cool (April and May is the peak time), the weather is pleasant. However, always bring a jacket because the temperature at night will be significantly lower than during the day (except in summer, it is always hot, peaking in July and August). It doesn’t rain much so you don’t have to worry.

Marrakech is warm all year round. The average temperature is around 12 degrees Celsius in the coldest months and 30 degrees Celsius in the summer. It can get super hot (more than 38 degrees Celsius) on summer afternoons.

How to get to Marrakech? (#marrakech travel guide)

Plane (#marrakech travel blog).

The city of Marrakech Morocco has an international airport Marrakesh Menara Airport (IATA: RAK, ICAO: GMMX) with direct scheduled flights to London and Paris and many arrivals from all over Europe. If you depart from Asia or elsewhere, you will have to transit in Casablanca. The airport is only about 4 miles (15 minutes) from the city center and buses, as well as taxis, operate all day. You should bargain taxi fare in advance.

Tips for check-in at the airport: When I flew to the airport, there was no issue at all. Standing in line waiting for security procedures to go out is a bit long, the airport is not too large, so it’s easy to navigate. However, when you take a return flight, you should note that although you can completely check in online, you still have to go to at Marrakech airport 3 hours in advance to bring the boarding pass to validate (get a stamp of confirmation) at the check-in counter of the airline. Last time I didn’t know, arrived 2 and a half hours in advance and was left behind, buying a new ticket to go back cost £350. After the trip, I learned the harsh lesson of not being careless, for air tickets, if there is any information, just read through it all because each airport will have a different regulation.

Train (#marrakech travel guide)

Regularly run between Marrakech and Casablanca. The trip takes about 3 hours. If you want to go to Fez, Tangier or Meknes then you can take the train via Rabat (4 hours from Marrakech). There is also a night train between Tangier and Marrakech. It’s the best to take a taxi to the train station in Marrakech as it’s quite far from the old town (if that’s where you stay).

There are three national bus companies operating between Marrakech and most major towns and cities in country of Morocco. They are Supratours, CTM and SATAS. Long-distance buses are comfortable and usually air-conditioned. The Supratours bus is handy if you’re traveling by train from Marrakech train station.

Getting around

From one province to another.

The main means of transportation are buses and trains. Taking the bus here is the most convenient and fastest (CTM or Supratours are both reputable and comfortable), if the bus tickets are sold out, you can always take the train as an alternative. However, you won’t like take a train because it’s hot and packed with passengers (stuffed like sardines, air conditioning is also not effect). Probably because the time I went was the big holiday season. If you don’t go on the holiday, it probably won’t be so bad.

Getting around the city

You can walk or take a taxi but remember to bargain! That is why you should stay in a place near the center, so it will be easier to move and more economical for you. Normally I would walk, but sometimes it’s too hot so I have to take a taxi.

Taxis are available all over town and are probably the most efficient way to get to tourist attractions. Large taxis are old Mercedes vehicles that carry up to six people at a fixed fare. They usually follow specific routes and you will find them at the bus stop, Djemaa el Fna and the main post office in Gueliz (new town). Taxis are usually a bit more expensive than other means of transport but it is convenient and you get to wherever you want. The meter on taxis is not always used, so ask the driver to turn it on or bargain the price before you get on any taxi.

Caleche is a horse-drawn carriage and a popular way to get around the city of Marrakech. For example, prices are clear for popular routes, but for other routes you will have to haggle with the driver. Should bid before you get in the car. You can catch a Caleche in the garden square between the Koutoubia mosque and Djemaa el Fna, El Badi Palace.

Buses in town are cheap but can be crowded. The central bus station, Place El Mouarabitene is located just outside Bab Doukkala on the northwest edge of the old town (Medina). You can buy tickets from the bus driver directly. Bus number 8 will take you to the train station, number 10 goes to the central bus station and number 1 runs between Medina and Gueliz (new town).

Motorcycles or bicycles are also a popular way to get around Marrakech and you can cycle in the medina which is very great.

What to do and where to go in Marrakesh? (#marrakech blog)

Majorelle garden and museum of islamic art.

Address: Rue Yves St Laurent, Marrakech 40090, Morocco Hours: 8AM–6PM

In the 1920s, French artists Jacques and Louis Majorelle created a beautiful garden in the middle of the new town of Marrakech. The Majorelle gardens are filled with colour, plants of all shapes and sizes, flowers, fish ponds. Designer Yves Saint Laurent currently owns the gardens and has also built a house on the site himself. The building that gets the most attention, however, is the bright blue and yellow building that Majorelle used as his studio and is now the Museum of Islamic Art. This small museum includes some good examples of Moroccan tribal art, rugs, goldsmiths and pottery. Gardens and museums open daily to visitors.

I fell in love with this place from the moment I walked in, a completely cool place in contrast to the 38 degrees Celsius outside. Except for the fact that it is popular tourist attraction. However, it is a place worth visiting. The history of the garden is also interesting as the garden was owned by an architect, then abandoned for a while and then bought by YSL, so you will see YSL’s museum in this lovely garden.

Medina (#marrakech blog)

Medina is the old quarter of Marrakech with maze-liked alleys, all kinds of shops where you can easily get lost. Even the map can’t update all medinas, so be careful. Normally, Riads will be located in the medina, so you should remember the way carefully.

The booked hotel is in the heart of the medina, so you must ask a guide to get to the right address. The zigzag alleys, the streets slanting into the street like the matrix of the Moroccan medina have been famous for a long time. As for its confusion, the houses are all shops selling or concurrently providing all kinds of repair services, crafting and handicrafts.

The wall of about 9 km long surrounding this labyrinth protected the dynasties many centuries ago, contributing to closing the life of the inhabitants inside. Therefore, the medina becomes more and more mysterious to strangers from afar. Just one day strolling in the old town of medina, a thousand and one interesting things can come to you.

The entrance to the doors of the mosques is the stopping line of the infidels, but it doesn’t matter. At Ben Youssef Madrasa Marrakech islamic school, visitors can visit its architectural masterpiece. In the center of the yard is a square lake lying close to the ground, reflecting the panorama of Medersa Ben Youssouf like a giant mirror.

Ben Youssef Madrasa is an ancient Islamic school in Morocco. Its mosaic entrance is always a “like” magnet for your photos. The wooden doors are carved in the Islamic style, the dome is in the Arabic style, and the top is filled with colorful tiles in geometric patterns.

Souqs (#marrakesh tourist guide)

Souqs (or Souks) are basically Moroccan traditional markets selling everything from food to high-quality crafts, so if you like  shopping and haggling, you’ll love this place. Even if you don’t like shopping, souqs are a cultural experience you don’t want to miss. Souqs is divided into small areas that specialize in a certain item such as apparel stores, jewelry, wool dyeing, spices, carpet sales, etc.

The souk is a must-visit place when traveling to Morocco if you like shopping or simply visit to know and try your bargain ability. You should buy a Moroccan rug as a souvenir, or buy a traditional djellaba (a long, loose-fitting unisex outer robe with full sleeves) here. Djellaba is the type of costume that two characters Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi wore in the hit “Star Wars” series. The souk located in the Medina is an old and attractive market in Marrakech, when you come here you will have the opportunity to shop to your heart’s content at affordable prices.

Musee Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts)

Address: 8 Rue de la Bahia, Marrakech 40000, Morocco Hours: 10AM–6PM/Tuesday: Closed

A 2 in 1 palace and museum well worth a visit. The palace is luxurious and beautiful with a lovely courtyard where you can relax and take some pictures. The museum is a place to display jewelry, costumes, ceramics, daggers…

El Bahia Palace

Address: Rue Riad Zitoun el Jdid, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco Hours: 9AM–5PM

This place is a great example of the finest Moroccan architecture. There are a lot of details, arches, lighting, carvings and it was built as a harem residence, which makes it even more interesting. The palace is open daily and has a lunch break but will be closed when the royal family visits.

Bahia Palace with its beautiful royal garden and hundreds of elaborately carved rooms, full of precious items is the most vivid evidence showing the luxurious life of the Moroccan royal family in previous centuries.

Bahia Palace is known as one of the most typical works for Nouveau Riche architecture (architectural style inspired by spacious nature) of the 19th and 20th centuries. The garden is fragrant with fresh citrus scent, the fountains placed throughout the palace hall or the traditional zouak motifs of the Middle East blend in the whole to create a magnificent construction.

It is a cultural and historical site with a long history and unique architecture that every visitor to Marrakech should not miss. The palace was built in 1578 with 360 rooms, a large outer courtyard and used a large amount of gold imported from Sudan to decorate El Bahia. Especially underground contains a small prison used by the king to imprison prisoners.

Conquering the Atlas Mountains (#marrakesh blog)

Cross the hills to conquer the Atlas Mountains or climb Mount Toubkal – North Africa’s highest peak. If that’s still not special enough, you can cross the mountains and go to the desert camping of the Dar Ahlam hotel right in the middle of the dunes, at the gateway to the Sahara.

Zagora desert tour

There will be different types of tours, 3 days 2 nights, 2 days 1 night… but because we didn’t have enough time and probably can’t stand it if we don’t shower and go to the toilet in the desert in hot weather, so we chose the tour of 2 days 1 night only. However, there are many different places and tours, I recommend you to take 3 days and 2 nights tour because you will go deep into the Merzouga desert, the scenery will be more beautiful, but it takes time to travel from Marrakech to the campsite, from 9-12 hours, very tired because of the zigzag road, those who are prone to motion sickness with car should prepare mentally, take medicine and remember to have breakfast before going. If you do not want to go far, you can refer to other desert tours closer (Scarabeo Camp). If you choose to go to another desert closer but still want to visit other places far from the city, you can find day tours and return, so it will be less tiring.

Tour prices are vary, depending on your budget, luxury also, affordable also. As for us, we are only students, so the tour is not very expensive and I booked that tour in the Riad.

Itinerary: You will be taken by car to places in desert, however, the way is very long (as I mentioned above), stopping at rest points and a village recognized by UNESCO. Once you arrive, you will be able to ride camel into the campsite with tents. I have to admit that the feeling of riding a camel is fun and interesting but very painful, the next day I can’t go all the way back.

In terms of my own experience:

It was a fun experience with new friends from Germany, Italy, and Spain. However, I don’t like the fact that the tour has many stops and a tour guide will ask you for a tip after the trip (which I did not expect). You’ll also be taken through the filming location of Game Of Thrones, beautiful as recognized by Unesco. A small note is that to cross that village you have to cross a stream or river, there will be sandbags for you to go up, however, there are children there who will be eager to take you over and ask for money, so remember that you can go by yourself.

Another experience is to remember to bring enough money, because the tour only includes dinner and 1 breakfast in the tent for you and then you also have to give the guide (useless) tips, if possible you could deal the tip with the guide in advance like I did. At first, he asked for 80 dh, I paid it down to 60 dh. Remember to buy a lot of bottled water to go to the desert to drink, brush your teeth and wash your face.

My most favorite thing is when I was immersed in quiet nature, there are rugs spread out on the sand for you to sit and play. After dinner in the main tent, you will have free time. Just lying on the rug, listening to the drums and singing of the locals, looking up at the starry sky with sand grains blown by the wind in the desert, you will forget all the fatigue on the way here. The laughter, stories and new friends are memories that I will never forget.

Beautiful scenery and cute camels! In short, it’s a great experience.

Jemaa el-Fnaa

The center of Marrakech’s old town is a rather large square – Jemaa el Fnaa was once a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can see the sunrise in the morning. At night, this place turns into a “sanctuary” for you to discover local cuisine with countless street foods. In particular, you can strolling around to see street artists perform. You will enjoy watching them hypnotize snakes, acrobatics on ropes, contortion.

One of the biggest flea markets in the world and it’s absolutely crazy and bustling, especially at night. Prices in this area are relatively high compared to other local markets. I really love the atmosphere and vibe here.

There’s a very big cafe near the center of the market, I can’t remember the name, but it’s on the rooftop, looking down is a stunning market scene. But I think you passing by can see it. Popular cafe, with a large space on the right hand side from the entrance, when you see the ATM, you go straight a little to come.

In the afternoon, the heat was dissipated, people and people bustled about walking on the square recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2001. The smoke from the barbecue shops covered a large corner of the square, the smell of food attracts more people.

The minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, located behind the gate of the city wall, with a height of 77m, is known as the Eiffel Tower of Morocco, is a famous work of art in North Africa, typical of Islamic Spanish architecture. Four spheres surround the top of the tower with the largest being 2m wide, symbolizing the Sun, Moon and stars.

The Koutoubia Mosque was built in 1184 and completed in 1199. It is therefore considered one of the oldest and largest mosques in Marrakech. The church has an ancient and sacred architecture, so when visitors want to visit the church, they must dress modestly and appropriately.

What to eat and drink? (#marrakesh tourist guide)

• Chicken Tagine: Chicken stew with lemon, potatoes and some other tubers (chicken tagine with lemon) is one of their signature dishes, quite tasty and easy to eat, not too greasy. It usually served with bread, but it must be said that their bread is very dry, because this country was very poor before and is still developing, so obviously some of their dishes will not be as good as already developed countries (I heard people tell).
• Barbecue (chicken, beef, etc.) in the night market is also delicious and cheap. Since their main religion is Islam, they do not eat pork.
• Méchoui: Made from lamb meat on skewers or grilled in the oven, served with salad.
• Ghoriba Bahla Moroccan Shortbread Cookies: The ghoriba is made from flour, sesame and almonds mixed together and baked in the oven. Enjoy this cake with a cup of hot ginger tea.
• Zaalouk: Grilled eggplant and tomato salad mixed together with garlic.
• Snail: The snail dish there is very simple, so I don’t like it very much (it must be said that it is as bland as snail broth without salt or spices) but because of the experience, why not?
• The fruit of the cactus (cactus pear or prickly pear): This fruit is very watery, and it’s cheap, but just eat 3-4 fruits, eating a lot is “cool in the gut”. You go along the road and you will see carts full of those fruits, like in Vietnam, there are carts selling fruit.
• Mint tea: Chilly with mint leaves and is a perfect drink to cool down in scorching hot weather and high humidity. People here do not use ice like ours in Vietnam, they will drink hot tea because this is the best way to reduce body temperature.
• At any riad you will be invited to drink mint tea like this. If you ask me what to buy as a gift, I recommend you buy mint or Moroccan tea here.
• Mixed tea: Because I can’t remember the exact name of the tea, but as far as I remember, it was combined and cooked by many different types of leaves and herbs. Drinking will have a feeling of heat from the throat to the abdomen, a drink suitable for the cold season. You can try it in the Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
• Smoothies: Their fruit is excellently juicy, probably because it was hot summer when we go. It’s so sweet that they make smoothies without sugar or milk, just chilled and ground fruit. Even kiwi is still sweet. The price is also quite cheap, so I drunk a lot, orange juice is 4 dh, other smoothies are 10 dh.

Lunch’s French and Moroccan fusion menu is the perfect match when you visit the famous souk flea markets. But you have to accept that the eateries here do not serve alcoholic beverages.

Moroccans drink tea from noon to night. The good news is that you won’t get bored drinking tea here as they have a wide variety of teas to choose from, and especially tea-based cocktails.

Try to find and dine at the restaurant Terrasse des Épices (Address: Sidi Abdel Aziz، 15 souk cherifia, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco/Hours: 12–5PM, 6:30PM–12AM) which is very special in Marrakech. From here you can also see the city and the mountains in the distance.

Where to stay? (#marrakech guide)

One of the most searched places in Marrakech is the Riad, a traditional Moroccan house located in the Medina (old town). All riads will have a central courtyard that will usually have a fountain, restaurant or pool. Some riads also have rooftop terraces where you can have breakfast and look out over the city. A complete list of riads in Marrakech including photos and prices can be found here.

Compared to a 5-star hotel, this is a place to help you get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace. You can choose a famous riad like EL Fenn with beautiful design and luxurious interior. Riad Farnatchi and Maison MK are also good choices.

Elegant and luxurious hotel La Mamounia in the heart of Marrakech was built in 1923 when Morocco was still under the French protectorate. Hotel Mamounia is a blend of elegant Art Deco style with traditional Arabic interior decoration. President Franklin used to relax at La Mamounia after a World War II strategy talks. And this is also the place to save the mark of clown Charlie Chaplin, the Rolling Stones and many other Hollywood stars for nearly a century.

Not overwhelming luxury and splendor, the hotels in Marrakech are unique in their own way. It is the villa Le Riad Yasmine ( Agoda , Booking ) with a swimming pool that caused an Instagram storm through the photo frame of blogger GypseaLust – a true ‘oasis’ on the edge of the desert, green and grassy for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life.

Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa ( Agoda , Booking ) is as splendid as a palace, where you can experience all of the most expensive and vibrant pleasures of this Muslim city. If you like sophisticated and elegant architecture, Royal Mansour Marrakech is definitely a great choice for an interesting vacation in Morocco.

Budget hotels are also plentiful as many smaller budget hotels will not have a website or online booking apps. These accommodation are usually located south of Djemaa el Fna.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Movenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi Marrakech ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hôtel Racine
• Almas ( Agoda , Booking )
• La Maison Arabe ( Agoda , Booking )
• Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hôtel Ibn Batouta
• Riad Houdou ( Agoda , Booking )
• Riad Dar Anika ( Agoda , Booking )
• Aqua Fun Club Marrakech

Check out more top and best hotels in Marrakesh on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Marrakech itinerary 4 days

I stayed in Marrakech for 4 days and 3 nights. In which, I had to book separate days because I had 1 night in the desert, so I booked the same place for convenient luggage storage. The trip itinerary I designed is as follows: the first night in Marrakech, the next night in the desert and send luggage at the Riad, the last night in the city). There are also hotels here, but because the experience will be more local if you stay in the Riad. Riad is a type of villa in the past that rich people built for the mistress (little wife, little girlfriend…) to live in, so it was divided into many rooms, usually with a courtyard with a swimming pool in the middle of that yard. Quite beautiful and close to the center. I stay at Riad Fabiola which is also very beautiful, walk about 15 minutes to the big square.

Tips & experiences

Eating and drinking, because I ate a lot of junk, drank a lot of water and had an upscale meal, so it cost me about $150. In addition, there will be other costs incurred, read in the article you can refer to it. In addition, you can exchange money at the airport, the exchange rate was quite good and more convenient, when you exchange you will be given a card like a bank card, you can receive completely cash send some cash in the card, where you can use the card, swipe, if not, you can withdraw money from ATMs. I recommend getting a card because keeping a lot of cash is also quite dangerous.

Regarding on how to dress, limit wearing clothes that are too open, revealing because after all, this is a country with Islam as the main religion, so the way you dress shows respect for people’s culture. Wear something compact, easy to move because you will have to go a lot, but when you go to dinner, feel free to dress up in beautiful clothes.

Some of the locals here really make the most of exploit tourists. After helping you (maybe they will enthusiastically guide you or lead you to a place to eat), they will ask for money as a fee of about 2 euros as the minimum. However, not all locals here are the same, some are very friendly and kind (but in the center or  tourism in Marrakech , remember to be careful).

Languages:  In the city of Marrakech Morocco you can find a wide range of languages including French, Spanish, Arabic and Berber. English is common wherever there are tourists, but it is certainly helpful to know a few French words.

Currency: Morocco uses dirhams and US dollars. It is best to bring cash and change as it is a bit difficult to find an ATM.

SIM: It can be helpful to buy a local SIM (with Morocco Telecom), the signal is pretty good throughout Morocco, even in the mountains, and then you can find your way around the city using Google Maps.

Clothing: Morocco is a Muslim country, so you will notice some cultural differences. I recommend wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Customs: When you communicate with people, remember that the left hand is considered unclean so people always use the right hand to interact and eat. Also, if you’re there on a weekend, Friday is a holy day so some places will close.

Few people know, the name Marrakech in Moroccan literally meaning the “Land of God”. But surely, the special impression of visitors about the city Marrakech is not the purity, but the excitement in the colorful old town (medina) of the Middle East, the never sleep nights on Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the thousand and one night markets and luxury hotels like an oasis on the edge of the desert.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Marrakech you can refer to

• Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech
• Marrakech: Private Transfer to or from RAK Airport
• From Marrakesh: Sunset and Magical Dinner in Agafay Desert
• Marrakech: Camel Ride in the Oasis Palmeraie
• From Marrakech: Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike and Boat Trip
• Marrakech: Atlas Mountains and Agafay Desert Day Trip
• From Marrakech: 3-Day Sahara Tour to Merzouga Erg Chebbi
• Marrakech Quad Bike Experience: Desert and Palmeraie
• Marrakesh: Full-Day Desert and Mountain Tour with Camel Ride
• From Marrakech: Essaouira Full-Day Trip
• Marrakech: Street Food Tour by Night
• From Marrakech: Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou
• From Marrakech: Merzouga 3-Day Desert Safari with Food
• Marrakech: Half-Day Historical and Cultural Tour
• From Marrakesh: Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains Day Tour

Read more Morocco guide here .

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