marrakech first trip

Destinations | AFRICA

15+ useful travel tips for marrakech for the first time visitor.

23 Mar 2024 | Africa , Destinations , Morocco

Planning your first trip to Morocco? Then you will find my travel tips for Marrakech extremely beneficial for an effortless vacation! 

These travel tips are essential to staying safe and relaxed during your stay. 

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

15+ Useful Travel Tips for Marrakech for first time visitor 

Marrakech is one of the most beautiful and exotic cities in the world. It’s a place where you can truly escape and relax. With its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Marrakech is a must-see destination for any traveler.

It is one of the imperial cities of Morocco, along with Fez, Meknes, and Rabat. And Rabat is the capital city of the Kingdom of Morocco! 

The name Marrakech means “Land of God”, and it originates from the Amazigh (Berber) words amur (n) kush. 

Visiting Marrakech is like experiencing a living history museum. Imagine yourself walking through the narrow streets of Medina, taking in the sights and sounds of this incredible city. 

Truly, with its warm weather and friendly people, Marrakech is a perfect place to relax and recharge.

READ NEXT |  MARRAKECH – THE PERFECT 3 DAY ITINERARY

Where is marrakech’s location .

Marrakech is located in the mid-southwestern region of Morocco – Marrakesh-Safi. It is served by the Marrakech Menara Airport . 

Tourist visa for Morocco and passports

This is probably common sense before you travel, but it’s always worth mentioning. To travel from Europe to Marrakech, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months as of the date of your departure.

Don’t get caught out – make sure you check your passport well in advance.

Passport holders of the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, the USA,  and Canada, do not need a visa to travel to Morocco. Do carry supporting documents for your travel plans (like tours, accommodation bookings, return tickets, etc.)

For those needing a travel visa to Morocco, you can apply by making an appointment at the Morocco consulate or embassy. Gather all the documents, along with your passport for your tourist visa, pay the fees and then have your visa stamped. More information here  

Currency in Morocco – Moroccan Dirham 

The Moroccan dirham is the currency of Morocco. Ten Dirham almost equates to 1 Euro (€ 0.94).

Be aware that most shops only accept cash – make sure you bring along enough money wherever you go. You can find ATMs in the newer part of the city, but there are almost none in the medina.

You will find many currency exchange shops in the medina if you need to change money. 

Weather in Marrakech

Marrakech is quite high up at altitude, so the weather can be cool, even in summer. While it’s warm during the day, temperatures at night are actually quite low so pack accordingly. 

It also gets very cold and windy in winter (December to February) when many places close for the season.

Do pack your best sunglasses (or you need to buy them in Marrakech, directly off the streets), sunscreen, and a sunhat. It’s hot in Marrakech but it can get very cold at night. 

Also bring clothes to keep warm, like scarves. Moroccan women wear the traditional long black coat with dark clothing, called a djellaba.

What to wear in Marrakech?

Dress respectfully in Marrakech and Morocco in general. This way you can avoid unwanted attention from passersby. 

Marrakech is located in Morocco, an African country where most people are Muslim. Respect their culture and religion during your stay. This means you need to ensure you’re dressing respectfully, always covering your shoulders and knees. 

Also, remember to pack a scarf or wrap to cover up when needed.

You will see lots of locals in traditional clothing too. But don’t feel pressured into wearing your djellaba (traditional Moroccan women’s dress).  If you want to, go ahead! If not, also no worries.

Morocco is still very much an open society and many women do not wear the hijab or headscarf. But having a scarf on you is useful when needed! 

Plus carry comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. 

How to get around Marrakech?

Inside the medina, you will be walking a ton to get around.

Outside the medina, you can opt for a taxi. There are lots of taxis in the medina. There are two types of taxis in Marrakech – petite (small) taxis and grand taxis. 

If taking a taxi, you have to agree on the price before getting in. Some taxis are unofficial taxis that are not regulated by any authority. If you don’t speak Moroccan Arabic, just simply say how much do you think it should cost and prepare for bargaining.  

Keep in mind, there is no Uber in Marrakech. 

In Marrakech, Mopeds and Travel Scooters are everywhere. It is apparently the most popular form of transport for locals who wish to get around quickly.

If you want to explore the city on your own in a royal way, there are horse-drawn carriages. They don’t seem to be regulated so you have to negotiate a price before hopping in.

Again, don’t trust taxi drivers

No list of Marrakech tips would be complete without this warning. Negotiate and agree on a fare in advance with your taxi driver, and always ask them if they can set up the meter. 

And if the driver says no? Get out immediately and take another taxi. It’s best to ask your hotel or riad if they can arrange a reliable taxi driver for you, with whom you should agree on a price in advance as well.

Experience by staying in a riad 

Although there are many hotels and luxury resorts in Marrakech, I would recommend you stay in a typical Moroccan riad (which means garden in Arabic).

Riads used to house the rich – but nowadays they’ve been transformed into beautiful residences for the countless tourists that visit Marrakech year after year. They usually have a limited number of rooms, and really breathe the typical Moroccan atmosphere.

You will be able to walk through their elaborate courtyards, enjoy traditional Moroccan food and meet the other guests staying at the riad , which is actually quite fun!

We stayed in Riad Villa Amira & Spa and were very pleased with the accommodation.

Book your stay here

Avoid the medina at night in Marrakech: Maintain your personal safety when in Morocco

The most important advice I can give you is to not walk around Marrakech by yourself at night. 

Even though it might be tempting, don’t explore the Medina by yourself at night… even as a couple you won’t feel at ease.

We heard many stories, and we actually saw a girl getting attacked by men wandering through the medina. She luckily got away (but left quite shaken). Don’t walk through dark alleys or stand alone in shady places like you might do back home – it just isn’t safe!

Plus don’t flash any gold or jewels and ensure you have money concealed in various pockets so they don’t see it all at once.

And when in doubt, or need directions ensure you are prepared prior to leave the hotel or riad premises. Hotel and riad staff are helpful and friendly. Just ask them if you’re unsure about where to go, and they will point you in the right direction.

It is okay to get lost (with a guide or alone during the day)

It’s a guarantee – you will definitely get lost in the maze of small streets in Medina, whether you want to or not. Don’t panic though, because sooner or later you will find a point of recognition, and most times you’ll find your way back easily.

Another option is to book a walking tour with a local guide to get accustomed to the area. Medina itself is huge, but you can surely make note of a few places that you will be using every day (like a restaurant, exit to the main city, taxi stand, etc.)

Avoid Jamaa el Fna

You might be thinking, isn’t Jamaa El Fna one of the most popular tourist spots? Although this main square is one of the main attractions in the city (and it’s difficult to avoid), you’d rather not spend too much time here.

Little monkeys hang on leashes and snakes are drugged and locked up in baskets to lure tourists to take a photo. This is of course no way to treat animals – so don’t support these malpractices.

Things to see in Marrakech

When visiting Marrakech for the first time, you must wander the medina, and also check off these must-see places

– Koutoubia mosque , which is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Marrakech

– Yves Saint Laurent Majorelle botanical garden created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle

– Palmeraie (gardens) de Marrakech, a popular lush palm oasis located just 15 minutes from Medina. The gardens have been planted over the years by the wealthy and powerful from all around Morocco, so their styles vary.

Due to the location of Marrakech, you can surely embark on day trips from the imperial city – this way you can stay overnight here, and still explore Morocco.

A day trip to the Atlas Mountains is a popular option. 

Overrated tours in Marrakech

Quad biking: Even though this is a popular activity, it isn’t really worth doing because you won’t see anything interesting out there – everything looks the same everywhere you go!

Camel trip: Don’t go for this, as we are unsure how animals are cared for in Morocco. 

And it might look beautiful in photos, but it’s actually a horrible experience. You will most likely get ill from the bumpy ride and if you go during the winter months you might catch a cold because of the cold breeze. 

Do not trust anyone who gives you unsolicited advice

Do not be too trustworthy in Marrakech. Many people might offer you unsolicited advice, but they’re only doing this to get something out of it for themselves. Make sure you don’t respond to them or follow them. 

For example, sometimes young people might try to talk to you and say that the street you’re walking on is closed, but in reality, this isn’t the case. They try to mislead you, take you along, and then ask for a ‘guidance fee’.

Eat at a restaurant, not a cafe or street stall

Street food might look enticing and cheap, but it’s definitely not worth the risk! Make sure to only eat where there are lots of locals – those places will never let you down.

Except of course if you order the most popular Marrakech dish, Kalia. It is exceptionally delicious but can have serious effects on your digestion. I recommend you only try it once while in Marrakech!  

Plus Moroccan mint tea is very refreshing, especially after a meal.

Definitely try out a Marrakesh dinner and show, The ones at Nobu restaurant are great!

Restaurant prices are of course more expensive than the ones next to your hostel, but you can always choose not to eat there every day and just cook on your own. Also, avoid drinking tap water in the city. 

Pro tip : I also highly recommend getting a water bottle with you!

Learn how to negotiate 

In Marrakech stores and souks, prices will not be displayed anywhere. Expect a ridiculously high price at first, and then negotiate down to the price you had in mind. Marrakech is a super nice city for shopping, but keep in mind that you’ll find the same items in other places throughout Morocco for much less.

So there you have it! These are some of the useful tips for Marrakech travel!

Now if you’ve been dreaming of a Moroccan adventure, Marrakech is a great start. It is an incredible destination with so many things for tourists to see and explore! 

Do follow my tips listed above when you are ready to go. Whether they are on vacation or taking a business trip, it is important that travelers learn about the culture before arriving in Marrakech by dressing modestly and reading up on some customs beforehand. 

Quick reminder: Make sure that your passport has at least six months left before expiring as well as visas from other countries if they’re needed. 

In addition, you should know how much money will be converted into Dirhams upon arrival – which can make negotiating prices easier once exploring the souks a little easier!

Do you have any further questions about this article? Feel free to leave a comment below.

Pin: 15+ Marrakech Morocco Travel Tips 

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I have never been to Marroco but would love to visit Marrakech!

I hope you can one day! It is such a vibrant city to visit!

Thank you so much for these tips. Nice to know for when I make it there!

I hope you will make it someday, it is such a pleasant city to visit!

I have traveled to Marrakech before and these tips are indeed the ones you need to be able to better understand the culture and enjoy the city fully!

Thank you so much for reading Sarah!

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The complete Marrakech Guide For First Time Travellers

This Marrakech guide is designed to help you plan and organise your first trip, to ensure you experience the essence of this amazing city and its key attractions.

Marrakech, also known as  the “Red or Ochre City”  needs no introduction and the name alone invokes images of red sandstone buildings, vibrant souks and unforgettable sunsets.

Founded in 1062, Marrakech has once given its name to the kingdom and served as the country’s capital under two dynasties. One of 4 imperial cities and the most known of all, Marrakech has fascinated historians, political leaders and many generations of artists. Winston Churchill believed that “Marrakesh is simply the nicest place on Earth to spend an afternoon” while Yves saint- Laurent has been a regular visitor since the 1960s and upon his death had his ashes scattered around his favourite garden.

The city has gained a reputation for being a world- class tourist destination and attracts millions of tourists every year.

Although the city is relatively small, there is so much to see and do that you can end up feeling overwhelmed and exhausted on your first visit. Marrakech is one of those places that need to be explored at a slow pace ideally, to connect deeply with its history, its cultural heritage, and its ancient architecture that has stood the test of time. I’ve been visiting Marrakech since I was a kid and I am always eager to discover new places or revisit old places with a fresh eye and a new perspective.

Getting there

There are many flight options to Marrakech from the UK. Prices depend on seasons with the highest being at Christmas and the New Year, and at the peak of summer. Tickets can be as cheap as £60 with no-frill airlines in the low season.

EasyJet fly from Gatwick and Manchester, and Ryanair from Luton and Stansted. British Airways and Royal Air Maroc fly daily from Heathrow to Marrakesh.

Flights typically take around three and a half hours.  

Marrakech weather 

Marrakech has a dry climate and can witness extreme heat in the summer months. However, it’s not an arid region due to its placement at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. The wettest period of the year is between January and April when as much as 31 mm of rainfall can be expected each month. July and August are the hottest months when temperatures average 37 °Cand can reach 44°C. It’s worth noting that Marrakech has little humidity which doesn’t go above 45% even in the hottest months.

Spring and Autumn are the most pleasant seasons for visiting as you can enjoy cooler temperatures during October and November, however the average temperature in September can still reach 33 °C. The rainfall in Autumn increases significantly from an average of 13 mm in September to 27 mm by November.

Marrakech guide for first time travellers

Experience the madness of jamaa el fna.

Jamaa El-Fna Square has been the heart and soul of Marrakech since the 17th Century at least, and today remains a meeting place for locals and tourists from around the world.

The place bustles with life from morning till night. While it is mostly occupied by fresh orange juice sellers, henna tatooists and herbalists during the day, it’s really after sunset that the square comes to life. Here, you will encounter a wonderful chaos of several food stalls, snake charmers, fortune tellers, acrobats and story tellers or as best described by The New York Times :  “It is a marketplace, a fun fair, a medieval fete, a lecture hall, a dance hall, a zoo, a hospital, a psychiatric clinic, a place in which magic still gives science a run for its money”.

The square was used throughout the centuries as a giant market where traders flooding down from the mountains set up their tents and shops. It is said that the entertainment that remains today is similar to that when the Caravan traders were around.

When Unesco launched its 1998 programme for the declaration of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, Jamaa El-Fna was one of the first places to be proclaimed a Masterpiece of World Heritage for bringing urban legends and oral history to life nightly.

In February 2022, British Ambassador to Morocco Simon Martin paid a tribute to storytelling by performing in the city’s International Storytelling Festival where he told the tale of Churchill’s love story with the city.

Watch the Ambassador’s brilliant performance in the video below.

While Jamma El-Fna should not be skipped, it can feel like an assault on the senses for anyone not used to this flurry of activities.

But you can still experience all the vibes from a distance. One of the best ways to do that is by sitting at one of the many rooftop terraces surrounding the square. Places get filled quickly so do plan on getting there before 5 pm. Most of these places serve food so order a meal and some mint tea and enjoy the spectacle before you decide if you want to experience it at close range.

GRAB A BARGAIN (OR TEN) AT THE SOUK

The souks of Marrakech are the largest in Morocco and live up to their reputation of being the most exotic marketplace in the world. Be prepared to dive in a world of multicoloured carpets, giant racks of spices, spectacular displays of lanterns, leather products, pottery and jewellery.

Historically, souks were divided and named according to the products being sold a thousand years ago and this layout continues to this day.

The souks start north of Jamaa El-Fnaa and spread through a series of winding passageways finishing at the Musee de Marrakech.

Navigating the souks is not an easy task as it doesn’t take much to get lost in the narrow alleyways. If you do you can ask any shop keeper to show you an exit, people in Marrakech are very friendly so don’t be surprised if someone offers to walk you all the way to the exit but if you are concerned about getting lost then wandering the souks with a licensed guide  is the best way to explore the old medina with a peace of mind. Using a Sat nav can be useful but avoid using them in narrow and small streets and always use a landmark such as the Koutoubia Mosque as your reference point or destination.   The souks are open from 9am to 9pm but the best times to visit are early in the morning or after sunset.

SEE THE KOUTOUBIA MOSQUE

One of the most important landmarks in the city of Marrakech, the Koutoubia mosque was built in 1120 under the Almoravid dynasty but its construction didn’t end until 1196, under the Almohad dynasty. the mosque is famous for its minaret which culminates at 77 meters in height, making it both the most emblematic and the tallest building in the city. The minaret has also served as a model for the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.

the mosque’s name which means the booksellers was given due to its former location in the souk of the manuscripts merchants.

Located about 500 meters southwest of the Jamaa El- Fna square and visible from miles, the inside of the Koutoubia mosque can only be visited by Muslims but the outside of the mosque is what attracts most visitors. The view is particularly beautiful from the gardens south of the mosque and in the evening when the mosque is lit up.

VISIT THE MADRASA BEN YOUSSEF

Madrasas are Islamic religious schools and the Ben Youssef madrasa was one of the largest schools in North Africa and the largest in Morocco.

Located a few steps from a mosque that bears the same name, the Quranic school was founded in the 14th century by a Merinid Sultan  and rebuilt in the 16th century under a different dynasty. The madrasa was for more than four centuries a home for students of theology and was designed to host 900 students within its 132 rooms that surround its sumptuous central courtyard and the marble basin that was used for ablutions. The school is a unique architectural masterpiece and worth a visit to admire this craftmanship and indulge in its history. The Ben Youssef Madrasa became a museum in 1960 and was refurbished in 1999, making it one of Marrakech’s most visited attractions.

Open daily from 9 am till 6 pm but closed on some holidays.

Entrance fee: £6

WANDER IN MAJORELLE GARDEN:

Majorelle Garden takes its name from its creator, the French painter Jacques Majorelle who fell in love with Morocco in 1917 and bought a land northwest of Marrakech where he built a Moorish-style villa and a painting studio and later on created a botanical garden. Majorelle spent 40 years acquiring different plants from all over the world to furnish his garden and used his painter’s eye to turn the garden into a magical sanctuary. The garden was first open to the public in 1947 to help with the costs of maintenance and was sadly abandoned after the painter’s death in 1962.

In 1980, the garden was acquired by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and regained its splendour under his care. After his death, friends of Yves Saint Laurent scattered his ashes in Majorelle garden where he often found inspiration and refuge.

In 2017, a museum dedicated to the work of Yves Saint Laurent opened its doors next to the garden. It houses an important selection from the Fondation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent’s impressive collection, as well as a 150-seat auditorium, a research library, a bookstore and a caf é .

It is worth noting that Majorelle Garden is quite small so don’t plan on spending a whole morning or afternoon there. You can get a combined ticket here to see all three attractions which is what I would recommend doing.

STEP BACK IN TIME AT EL BADII PALACE

This old palace was built by the Saadian sultan Al-Mansur to celebrate his victory over the Portuguese army in 1578.

El Badii palace was built over 16 long years, using the finest materials from all over the world such as marble from Italy and jade from China. The palace was a symbol of power and took 16 years to finish.

Its courtyard is a large version of that of the Alhambra and Its underground system allowed servants to move through the palace and its 360 rooms without being seen.

When the new ruling dynasty came to power in 1696, the new sultan ordered a complete stripping of the palace from its marbles and other treasures and transported them to his new capital, Meknes ; a task which took 20 years to complete. The once sumptuous palace is now an impressive ruin that’s worth visiting.

Palace Badii is open daily. Times may vary Entrance fee is £6.

HAVE A MINDFUL MOMENT AT LE JARDIN SECRET

This 400-year-old palace dates back to the Saadian dynasty. Tucked away in the heart of the medina, the building once belonged to the elite of Morocco and reflected the splendour of Moroccan architectural art. It ended up derelict and abandoned following the death of its last owner in 1934 and has been restored into a garden and museum in 2008 and finally open to the public in 2017.  Besides the totally renovated palace, visitors are also surprised to discover two wonderful gardens: an exotic garden and an Islamic garden. The Exotic Garden brings together many plants from the five continents while the Islamic Garden is designed to be a representation of Paradise on earth, as described in the Quran and is home to several species of olive, orange trees and lavender.

You can also visit the tower (for an additional fee) which offers stunning  views of the Medina and its surroundings, including the Koutoubia mosque.  There is also a restaurant overlooking the entire garden, as well as a café and several souvenirs shops.

The Jardin Secret is open all year between 9:30 am and 7 pm (times vary according to seasons).

Entrance fee is £7 for the garden and £3.50 for the tower.

MARVEL AT THE ARCHITECTURE AT EL BAHIA PALACE

The Bahia Palace is located south of the Medina of Marrakech near the Casbah. Built in 1900, it was designed to be the most sumptuous of the palaces of Morocco and included 150 rooms decorated in floral paintings and sculptures, several gardens showcasing several plants and a huge courtyard.

Today the gardens are still the highlights of the place and you will be able to enjoy a display of orange trees, grapefruit and various yellow, red, purple flowers.

The rooms inside the palace don’t have any furniture but you can still appreciate the architecture and original features.

El Bahia palace is open daily between 8 am and 5 pm. Entrance fee is £6.

Do a Food tour

This Marrakech guide wouldn’t be complete without a reference to Moroccan cuisine! There are a lot of great restaurants in Marrakech but it can be hard to know which ones are genuine and which ones are tourist traps. One of the best ways to discover Moroccan cuisine is via a food tour with a local reputable company. Marrakech Food Tours provide authentic culinary tours using high quality English speakers. The tours take you through several districts where you sample a variety of national and local dishes and offer a great insight into the culture and history of Moroccan cuisine.

Tips for your first time visit to Marrakech 

• Haggling is part of the culture in Morocco and you must be prepared to bargain if you don’t want to end up paying ridiculous prices. Don’t be afraid to haggle if you really like something but do it in a respectful manner and offer a fair price. I always have a final price in mind so I don’t end up wasting my time or theirs. Again, if you are unsure of the value of something it helps to have a local guide with you. Also note that haggling is only expected in the souks for souvenirs and touristic items. You can’t haggle in restaurants or food shops.
• You will be amazed how friendly and hospitable people in Marrakech are but you may get hassled in the souks by stall holders especially if you start expressing interest in something but decide to walk away. Avoid a conversation in this case and just smile politely and say “la, shukran” (no, thank you).
• If you are a female travelling solo, don’t get fooled by all the Instagram posts showing women in short dresses and crop tops in the souks. While there is no established dress code in Morocco and you can wear pretty much anything you like, it’s good to be aware of the culture and etiquette so as not to offend the locals. Wearing revealing clothes is frowned upon especially in neighbourhoods around the medina where people dress conservatively. You do not need to cover your head but avoid wearing outfits which are too short or revealing.
• Taxi drivers in Marrakech are notorious for ripping people off and if I could avoid using them I absolutely would but sometimes they are the only choice available. Asking a taxi driver to turn the meter on can avoid being overcharged, unfortunately the majority don’t do it. If you must take a taxi, ask a local how much they would normally pay for the journey so you have a guide price and can negotiate with the driver.
• Don’t exchange more money than you would spend. Moroccan Dirham is a closed currency and can’t be exchanged outside of Morocco so make sure to budget accordingly.
• Beware of pickpockets in Jamaa El-Fna and avoid taking photographs of the snake charmers and captured animals unless you don’t mind paying them. Taking a photo without permission can often result in an aggressive exchange.  This also applies to shop keepers in the souks.

Have you been to Marrakech? How was your experience? Share your tips to help make someone’s first time special.

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I nice comprehensive guide to this charming city. I’m glad you picked my favourite place, the Majorelle Gardens, as they are superb. Also, glad you mentioned the over-hassling that vendors do, that can often be intimidating or just plain annoying. I found this the biggest negative on my visit there – but as you say, just say no and politely walk away, ignoring their calls. Great info on Le Petit Jardin and it was interesting to read about it as I was not able to visit it, much to my regret after reading your comments.

hanks for your comment Barry! yes the hassling can be off-putting but the key is definitely to ignore! Majorelle is superb indeed but shame you didn’t get to visit the secret garden. You now have a valid reason to visit Marrakech again! 😉

Christina Trama

This looks like a beautiful destination. The mountain peaks in the background are amazing and the markets look lovely!

Thanks Christina. It is amazing to see the contrast of the snow-capped mountains against the red coloured buildings.

I can’t tell you how many times Marrakesh has been on my list to travel, but for one reason or another, it always gets put off until later. Maybe because I live in Portugal and it is relatively close and accessible. The guide is very enlightening and will help a lot to those who, like me, want to visit Marrakech for the first time. I’ll save it for later. Thanks for sharing

Thanks Angela and I hope you get to visit Marrakech one day. You will be amazed at the similarities in architecture and food between Morocco and Portugal!

Wow! I would love to get lost in the Souk! I love shopping in markets like that, I feel exhilarated! The El Badii Palace is exactly what I think of when I think of Morocco, such beautiful history!

Thanks Pam! shopping in Marrakech is a unique experience indeed!

Marrakech is on my list and so this guide is perfect for a first time traveller. It has great information about when to go and what to do. I would definitely want to go to the lively markets and look for something to bring home to remind me of this beautiful destination. Saving for later.

This is such a fantastic and detailed post! I can’t imagine I’d need any more information if I was to go to Marrakech! I love all your additional tips as well; it’s so important to respect the culture and as a women I definitely wouldn’t wear anything short or revealing and draw attention to myself.

Lisa's Notebook

Morocco has been on my bucket list for a while now, and I’ve always wanted to go to Jamaa El-Fna Square so I’m bookmarking this for future reference, thank you!

Thank you Lisa and I hope you get to visit Marrakech soon!

Thanks for including a few insights for female solo travellers. I have to say Marrakesh puts me off a bit from visiting, as I don’t fancy getting harassed by the local men. The souks look interesting and I’d like to know if they are genuinely authentic or if there’s the same cheap tat that they will eventually sell on every corner.

Carolin | Solo Travel Story

I haven’t been to Morocco yet and while it is a place I’d like to check out, I’ve heard varying accounts of how it is for a solo female traveler. Really good to read some of your additional tips for that reason. Majorelle garden looks really impressive and beautiful and it seems like there are lots of shopping options. I don’t mind haggling but good to know about the possibility of a guide for the souk

So many great tips in this post! One of the best things about travel is the food. The food tour would be a perfect way to taste authentic cuisine and experience a bit of the culture.

Loved this detailed and informative post! I’ve heard many stories, both from solo travelers and those traveling with others, how intimidating and confusing it is to navigate and visit Marrakech. This is a great piece for first timers to use so they’re not so overwhelmed by this area.

Morocco is already high on my list but this post pushed it up higher. Wow–what a stunning city Marrakech is. Are these photos your own? Beautiful. That blue of Majorelle Garden is ?? Take me to the souks!!

Ryan Biddulph

Ibti what an awesome guide. Fabulous job. My wife dialed in on Marrakech and will make it there eventually but a few house sits popped up over the past few months. We are booked for a bit but will get there I know. Gorgeous place. I loved your photos too.

Thanks a lot Ryan and I hope you find it useful when you decide to visit Marrakech.

Jessica Vine

This looks like a whole other world. Super cool and lots of shopping which can be dangerous to the wallet. haha 🙂 Thanks for putting this together.

You are welcome Jessica and thanks for reading! Prices are very reasonable in Marrakech but yes one can easily get carried away! 🙂

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The Republic of Rose

A California-based travel and lifestyle blog

3 Days in Marrakech Itinerary (Ultimate First Timer’s Guide!)

Planning your first visit to Morocco and want to know how to spend an unforgettable 3 days in Marrakech? This guide will cover everything you need to know including how to plan your visit and exactly what to do with 3 days in Marrakech!

While visiting Portugal , my mom and I decided to take a long weekend trip over to Marrakech since it’s an easy flight. It was both of our first visit to Morocco (and my first visit to the continent of Africa!).  

Marrakech is known for its colorful souks, beautiful architecture, enchanting riads, and captivating energy. The city is a great introduction to the captivating country of Morocco!

I spent countless hours researching all the best things to do in Marrakech to come up with the perfect itinerary… And I couldn’t have been happier with how our trip turned out.

Here’s the ultimate 3 day Marrakech itinerary!

About Marrakech

Marrakech is a vibrant and historically rich city located in western Morocco. It’s one of the country’s major cultural, economic, and tourist hubs, known for its historic city center, stunning palaces, and vibrant atmosphere.

The heart of Marrakech is its old city, the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with narrow winding streets, bustling markets, and historic sites.

The city also serves as a gateway to the stunning Atlas Mountains, offering opportunities for trekking and exploring Berber villages nearby.

Who are the Berbers?

Curious who the Berber people are?! I was as well, and luckily got to learn much more about them while visiting Marrakech.

The Berber people are an indigenous ethnic group primarily indigenous to North Africa that have a rich history dating back thousands of years. They are considered to be among the original inhabitants of North Africa, with a heritage that predates the Arab-Islamic conquest of the region in the 7th century.  They have their own language and cultural practices and were often nomadic but also settled within villages in the Atlas Mountains and beyond.

Best Time to Visit Marrakech

Marrakech has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters.  And, it’s ideally situated near both mountains and deserts.  So when you plan to visit depends a bit on what you’d like to do with 3 days in Marrakech, plus your ability to handle the heat!  Let’s break it down by season:

Spring (March to May):

The spring is an excellent time to visit Marrakech as the weather is pretty mild with temperatures averaging 74 – 83°F. The flowers and greenery will be blooming, and the Atlas mountains may still be capped in snow.  This is also peak tourist season so expect crowds and higher rates for hotels and flights.

Summer (June to August):

The summer months will be hot, hot, hot!  Seriously, temperatures will be above 90°F and can even soar above 100°F.  If you dare to brave the heat, make sure your lodging has air-conditioning and a pool — as it will definitely be pool lounging weather!

During the summer, an escape to the Atlas mountains can provide some relief from the heat and make for a great day trip.

Fall (September to November):

Similar to spring, the fall brings more mild temperatures and the tourists return for high season again. During peak seasons, you’ll want to book your lodging and flights in advance!

Winter (December to February):

Winter has the most mild daytime temperatures with highs around 63°F, but the evenings can be a little chilly with temperatures dropping as low as 43°F.  The nearby Atlas mountains are usually covered in snow which can make for some scenic views, and this is a good time of year to visit the desert (while it’s not scorching!).

While there are fewer tourists during the winter months, the holidays can be a busy time for tourism as people take trips during their time off of work!

I visited Marrakech in early June which was the very beginning of the summer weather — we lucked out with temperatures in the 80s mostly!  Plus, our riad was air-conditioned and had a rooftop pool.

Overall, we felt pretty comfortable while exploring during our 3 days in Marrakech and our trip to the Agafay desert was hot but the large pool at the desert camp was perfect for cooling down… More on that below!

As for crowds, it was definitely still crowded in early June. Many of the small riads were already booked up by the time we began planning and many of the main attractions were fairly busy.  That being said, we made it work by starting our days early so it didn’t really detract from our overall trip!

How to Get to Marrakech

As a popular tourist destination, Marrakech is well-connected by various means of transportation. The best way to get to Marrakech depends on your starting location!  Here are some common ways to reach Marrakech:

By Air: If you’re coming from outside of Morocco, this is likely the mode of transportation you’ll take to get to Marrakech. Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is the main airport serving Marrakech, with direct international flights arriving from all over Europe.  If you’re coming from the US, you’ll have to make a connection (most likely somewhere in Europe!).

By Train: Morocco’s national railway network, ONCF, operates train services connecting Marrakech to other major cities in Morocco, including Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Tangier. Train travel can be comfortable and convenient, providing an opportunity to see the Moroccan countryside during the journey.

By Bus: Several inter-city bus companies offer services connecting Marrakech with various cities in Morocco, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers. Also, CTM and Supratours are two well-known bus companies that operate comfortable and reliable services between Marrakech and other major cities.

By Car: Marrakech is accessible by road, and some travelers may prefer to rent a car for flexibility and to explore the surrounding areas. The road network in Morocco includes well-maintained highways that connect Marrakech to other major cities.  However, if you plan to stay in the Medina, you’ll definitely need to find somewhere else to park your rental car or return it at the rental agency before heading into the city!

To get to Marrakech, I flew directly from Lisbon via TAP Air Portugal into Marrakech Menara Airport and it was a breezy 1.5 hour flight!  Since we just stayed in Marrakech, I don’t have any personal experience with the train but I’ve heard it’s very convenient if you’re traveling to other cities in Morocco.

How to Get Around Marrakech

Getting around Marrakech is very doable on foot and by taxi.  Here are some tips for how to navigate the city: 

Walking: The old city’s narrow streets and vibrant markets are best explored on foot. Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of Marrakech. Many of the city’s major attractions, such as Jemaa el-Fnaa square, Bahia Palace, and Koutoubia Mosque, are within walking distance of each other in the Medina.  However, keep in mind that the winding, narrow streets can be very confusing and it can be easy to get lost. 

I highly recommend downloading an offline map of the city on Google Maps as phone service is very spotty!

Quick tip: if locals try to give you directions or tell you to go a certain way, they will then usually expect money in return.  I recommend to politely decline and follow your Google Maps directions!

Taxi: They are great for short distances outside of the Medina and can be hailed on the streets or found at taxi stands. Before beginning the ride, tell the driver where you would like to go and negotiate the fare, as some taxis might not use the meter.

Our riad was a bit tricky to find so one of the employees wrote down some directions (in Arabic) for the nearest street so we could show taxi drivers which turned out to be very helpful.

Horse-Drawn Carriage (Caleche): I noticed there were some horse-drawn carriages around the exterior of the Medina. However, I generally try to stay away from these wherever I go as I can’t be sure how the horses are treated.

Tuk Tuk: These three-wheeled, open-air vehicles can be hailed like a taxi within the Medina — as they can fit down the narrow streets (unlike regular taxis!).  We noticed them mostly around Jemaa el-Fnaa square and we ended up taking one back to our riad after a long day of walking when we were totally exhausted!  It was very convenient and affordable. Like with taxis, just make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.

Private Cars or Tours: Hiring a private car or a driver can offer convenience and flexibility, especially for day trips or exploring areas outside Marrakech.  We set up a private transfer through our riad to and from the airport, and also for our day trip to the Agafay desert.

Important Information about Visiting Marrakech

Language: Arabic and French are the most widely spoken languages. But of course, English is also understood and spoken throughout the tourist areas! Learning some basic Arabic or French phrases or using translation apps can be helpful and polite.

Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). I would definitely advise to have some cash for smaller transactions (like taxis, souvenirs, entrance fees, etc.), although credit cards are accepted in many establishments.  We mostly used Moroccan Dirham but were able to use some Euros and even USD for shopping in the souk!

Visas: Travelers from many countries do not need a visa to visit Morocco for a period of up to 90 days. Citizens of the USA, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the EU and Canada, among many others, do not need a visa to travel to Morocco, provided they have a passport of usually six months’ validity and an onward or return ticket (with supporting documents).

Haggling: Bargaining is common in the souks and markets. Practice your haggling skills but do so politely. I’ve heard that offering 1/3 of the original offer is a good place to start… But to be honest, I’m the worst at haggling! 

Cultural and Social Etiquette: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative customs. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or more traditional areas

Health and Safety: Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Avoid tap water and be cautious with ice cubes in drinks. Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious with valuables.

3 Days in Marrakech Itinerary

Here’s a quick overview of all the places visited on this 3 days in Marrakech itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Medina — Bahia Palace, Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Koutoubia Mosque, Souks, La Mamounia, Comptoir Darna

Day 2: Day Trip to the Agafay Desert

Day 3: Jardin Majorelle & Yves Saint Laurent Mansion, Museum of Confluences, Bacha Coffee, El Fenn, Ben Yousef Madrasa, La Salama

Day 1: Explore the Medina & Souks

For our first day in Marrakech, we wanted to explore the vibrant Medina and our riad set us up with a knowledgeable guide to show us some of the highlights — the guide cost was around $60 for the day.

We woke up early with our guide collecting us directly from our riad.  Once we stepped out of our peaceful riad and onto the bustling streets of the Medina, we were very happy we decided to go with a guide on our first day. While you can definitely navigate the Medina on your own, it was helpful to have someone show us around while we got our bearings and acclimated to the sensory overload that is the exciting Medina!

Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace (or “Palais Bahia”) is a stunning historical palace located in the heart of the Medina. It’s renowned for its exquisite architecture, intricate design, and extensive gardens, and is one of the city’s most visited attractions.

It’s fascinating to get a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the historic elite in Marrakech!

The Bahia Palace was built in the late 19th century and is a complex consisting of a series of interconnected courtyards, gardens, and rooms. The expansive gardens are adorned with fountains, fragrant flowers, and citrus trees, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

The palace is typically open to visitors daily, with an entrance fee.  We paid 70 dirhams (around $7) per person and it was cash only so be sure to visit the ATM for some dirhams beforehand!

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

This iconic square is the buzzing heart of the Medina, bustling with locals and tourists, food stalls, and a lively atmosphere day and night. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a central focal point of the city’s cultural and social life.

During the day and into the evening, Jemaa el-Fnaa Square comes alive with an array of street performers, including musicians, dancers, snake charmers, and storytellers, creating a lively and eclectic atmosphere.

As the sun sets, the square transforms into a vast open-air food market, offering a variety of Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, grilled meats, couscous, and traditional snacks. It’s a great place to experience local culinary delights.

Koutoubia Mosque

Located just minutes from Jemaa el-Fnaa, Koutoubia Mosque is an iconic landmark and the city’s largest mosque.  Built in the late 12th century, the mosque has a grand minaret that stands at over 250 feet tall and dominates the city’s skyline.  

While non-Muslims cannot visit inside the mosque, it’s still impressive to admire the Moorish architecture from the outside!

Explore the Souks

The souks in Marrakech are vibrant and bustling marketplaces that form an integral part of the city’s cultural and economic fabric. These traditional markets offer a sensory-rich experience, where visitors can immerse themselves in a maze of narrow alleyways filled with various goods, crafts, and local products.

I was very excited to experience the souks and do some shopping! While I was prepared for the types of goods to expect at the souks — spices and textiles to ceramics, leather goods, jewelry, and more — I didn’t realize that there was a different souk specializing in each good.

So for example, there was an entire souk specializing in leather goods with countless shops all selling different leather items. And an entire soak just for textiles, ceramics, and so on!

The labyrinthine layout of all these interconnected souks can be confusing, so this is where your map will come in handy to navigate the alleys.  Or consider hiring a guide specifically to help you with shopping in the souks… I found it to be so helpful!

Note that cash is preferred in the souks, although some vendors might accept credit cards. And make sure to have small denominations of currency for easier transactions (and to help with haggling!).

Drinks at La Mamounia

After our long day exploring the Medina, we returned to our riad to rest and get ready for dinner.  Before our dinner, we decided to stop at La Mamounia for a pre-dinner cocktail.

La Mamounia is a renowned luxury hotel known for its opulence, elegance, and historical significance.  It dates back to the 18th century when it was established as a royal palace. In 1923, the palace was converted into a hotel and opened its doors to guests. Over the years, it has welcomed numerous celebrities, dignitaries, and notable personalities.

Today, the luxury hotel is known for its luxe rooms, fine-dining restaurants, gorgeous spa and hammam, and expansive gardens.

Arriving at the hotel, I was struck by how grand and beautiful it was! I took some photos in the outside gazebo and was quickly approached by an angry employee who made me aware of a no photo rule and took me to the security office to lock up my camera until I left. I was very embarrassed and had no idea there was a rule against photos… so don’t be like me and make sure to follow the photography rules if you visit this hotel!

After the entrance, we were a bit frazzled and worried over my confiscated camera, so we decided to just have a quick cocktail at Le Bar Marjorelle and were on our way to dinner. I’ve heard that the gardens are very beautiful though so definitely check these out if you visit!

Dinner at Comptoir Darna

Comptoir Darna is one of the most popular restaurants in Marrakech and is known for its blend of Moroccan cuisine, entertainment, and lively atmosphere.

Since its such a popular spot, I made a reservation a few weeks in advance for 8:30pm as I read that there were two performances each night at 9:30pm and 11:15pm.

When we arrived, the restaurant was packed but we got a lovely table on the outdoor patio.  We had an hour to begin enjoying our dinner before the entertainment started which was perfect.

We ordered the “7 Moroccan Salads” and the “Royal Couscous” and it was plenty of food for two people.  All the food was delicious and it was fun to try so many different Moroccan specialities!

As we were finishing our dinner, we got to see the live belly dancing show.  The dancers did a performance around the tables on the outdoor patio during dinner… It was a definitely an entertaining way to wrap up our meal at Comptoir Darna!

We left around 10pm and we noticed that the inside was beginning to have more of a lively nightclub vibe.  So if you’re looking for a fun night spot, I would plan to visit Comptoir Darna on the later end and see the 11:15pm show!

Morocco is known for its dramatic desert terrain, so I knew I wanted to include a day trip to the desert on my 3 days in Marrakech itinerary. While the Sahara Desert is absolutely on my bucket list, I knew it wouldn’t be possible with just 3 days in Marrakech since you need at least 2-3 days to visit it.  A popular alternative is the Agafay Desert which is just under an hour from Marrakech!

The Agafay Desert is a unique and picturesque desert landscape characterized by vast barren plains, rocky terrain, and occasional sand dunes, offering a different experience compared to the traditional sand dunes of the Sahara Desert.

It’s an important distinction as you’ll be a bit disappointed if you visit the Agafay Desert expecting the iconic sand dunes of the Sahara!

However, the Agafay Desert is still very beautiful and much closer — so it’s doable on a day trip from Marrakech.

Best Things to do in the Agafay Desert

Desert Excursions: There are a lot of different activities available on tours — like camel rides, quad biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle tours, allowing visitors to explore the rugged terrain and experience the desert environment.

Sunset and Stargazing: The Agafay Desert is known for its breathtaking sunsets. Many tour operators offer sunset excursions, providing an opportunity to witness the changing colors of the sky over the desert. Additionally, the absence of city lights makes it an ideal spot for stargazing on clear nights!

Luxury Camps: There are luxury desert camps and accommodations in the Agafay Desert that offer a unique glamping experience. These camps feature comfortable tents, amenities, and traditional Moroccan hospitality, allowing guests to spend a night under the desert sky in style.

Cultural Activities: Some desert camps organize cultural activities such as traditional Berber music, dance performances, and Moroccan cuisine, providing a glimpse into local traditions and customs.

BE Agafay Luxury Camp

To visit the Agafay Desert, we decided to spend the day at one of the luxury desert camps in the area. BE Agafay is a camp that offers glamping-style lodging, as well as day passes to enjoy the restaurant, pool, and activities — like camel riding and quad biking.

We spent the day relaxing by the pool under the hot Moroccan sun, soaking in the panoramic desert views, and even did a quick guided camel ride around the hills surrounding the property!

→ Read Next: BE Agafay Luxury Camp — Everything You Need to Know!

After our day in the desert, we decided to enjoy dinner on the rooftop of our riad… Which was honestly some of the best food we enjoyed in Marrakech!

It was a feast of traditional Moroccan dishes, salads, and an incredible chicken tagine that I’m still dreaming about today.

Dar Yacout is another great dinner option offering traditional Moroccan dishes in an enchanting riad-like setting and is located in the heart of the Medina. Or, Dar Soukkar is a restaurant with a dazzling live show experience for a special night out!

Day 3: Visit the Famous Botanical Gardens, Palaces & Museums

Jardin Majorelle & Yves Saint Laurent Mansion

One of the most popular attractions in the city and a must for your 3 day Marrakech itinerary is the Jardin Majorelle-Yves Saint Laurent Mansion.

Jardin Majorelle is a botanical garden known for its exotic plants, vibrant colors, and artistic legacy. It’s located in the Ville Nouvelle (New Town) area of Marrakech, not far from the Medina.

The garden was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and 1930s. Then, in 1980, fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé acquired the garden to preserve its beauty and historical significance.

Since it’s such a popular attraction, we planned a visit for the first time slot in the morning — which still turned out to be very crowded! Despite the crowds, we enjoyed our stroll through the garden’s pathways, admiring the diverse plant species, and enjoying the serene ambiance.

We purchased the combined ticket (for 315 MAD, or about $32 USD) so we were able to visit the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts and the Musée Yves Saint Laurent in addition to the Jardin Marjorelle. Note: tickets must be purchased online !

I really enjoyed the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts, which is inside the botanical garden.  It was really fascinating to learn about the history of the Berber people and I loved seeing all the traditional outfits, jewelry and artifacts on display.

Finally, we visited the Musée Yves Saint Laurent — a museum dedicated to the fashion designer — which was located next door to the botanical gardens.  And… it was surprisingly very uncrowded! 

The museum building itself is quite architecturally stunning, while the interior is fairly small so you won’t need much time to see the whole exhibition.  The exhibition features garments from Yves Saint Laurent’s collections as well as sketches, photos, and videos that showcase his design process.

Museum of Confluences

Dar El Bacha is a historic 18th century palace located in the Medina and now houses the Museum of Confluences.

This museum features various exhibits, including displays of Moroccan textiles, ceramics, jewelry, traditional clothing, and historic objects that offer insights into the country’s cultural and artistic heritage.  Also inside the Dar El Bacha palace is the famous Bacha Coffee (more on that in a bit).

We purchased tickets for 60 MAD (about $6 USD) to go inside the palace and visit the museum, as well as Bacha Coffee.

While quite small in size, I found some of the displays in the museum were really interesting and the palace itself is stunning and worth a visit alone!  The palace features ornate details, a beautiful courtyard garden, and intricate tile work typical of Morocco.

Bacha Coffee

The entrance to Bacha Coffee is tucked away in the corner of the courtyard of Dar El Bacha palace. But make no mistake, while it seems like it may be a hidden gem, it’s a very popular spot! In fact, we had to wait about 45 minutes to get seated — don’t worry though, the host gives you a buzzer that alerts you when your table is ready and you are then free to explore the museum until then.

Bacha Coffee is a small and glamorous coffee room where visitors can enjoy their world-renowned coffee and delicious pastries, tarts and cakes.

They serve over 200 single-origin 100% Arabica coffees from all over the world.  It’s a bit overwhelming but our server helped us make some selections from the enormous menu. We ordered both hot and iced coffees and everything was incredible. And, if you order an iced coffee, you get to keep the beautiful glass straw as a souvenir!

Itinerary Note: Le Jardin Secret is right next door to Dar El Bacha (entrance fee is 80 dirhams / about 8 USD) so if you would like to visit, this would be a great time to do so!  We had planned to visit but after exploring the Marjorelle gardens all morning, we decide to skip these gardens… I’d love to see them on my next visit to Marrakech though!

Lunch at El Fenn

After our morning exploring botanical gardens, palaces and museums, we were ready to eat so we stopped for lunch at El Fenn .

El Fenn is a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of the Medina.  It’s a stylish and intimate riad, offering a blend of traditional Moroccan architecture, contemporary design, and upscale amenities.

The property was originally a private residence before being transformed into a boutique hotel by Vanessa Branson (sister of Richard Branson) and Howell James in collaboration with local artisans and designers.

We visited the rooftop terrace for lunch, and were delighted by the panoramic views of Marrakech’s skyline.  The rooftop has a restaurant, bar and multiple pools (a swimming pool and a dipping pool) and the overall vibe is very chic!

Ben Yousef Madrasa

The Ben Youssef Madrasa (also spelled Medersa Ben Youssef) is an ancient Islamic college located in the heart of the Medina. It stands as one of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in the city, known for its stunning architecture, intricate design, and rich historical significance.

Today, visitors can explore the peaceful atmosphere, admire the ornate decorations, and learn about the historical and cultural significance of the site.  Tickets can be purchased at the entrance for 50 MAD (about $5 USD).

Dinner at Le Salama

Located in the Medina by the famous Jemaa El Fna square,  Le Salama  is a restaurant with three floors including an outdoor rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the city. Featuring playful decor, the atmosphere is buzzy and hip — with evening music and entertainment like belly dancing.

The menu features Moroccan classics like tagines, couscous, meat skewers, and an assortment of Moroccan salads. A great final evening for this 3 days in Marrakech itinerary!

Where to Stay in Marrakech

The city offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels and traditional riads, catering to various preferences.

What is a riad?

A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an inward-facing courtyard. Today, many of these riads have been converted into guesthouses or boutique hotels for tourists. It’s an excellent way to get a feel for traditional Moroccan life while visiting Marrakech!

While planning my trip to Marrakech, I decided to stay in a riad to get the full Moroccan experience (which I loved!), but I did a lot of research on both the hotels and riads in the city so here are my top picks:

Four Seasons Resort Marrakech : This luxurious hotel offers opulent accommodations, beautiful gardens, and top-notch amenities, providing guests with a lavish experience in this vibrant city. Guests can expect all the comforts of a Four Seasons hotel with a Moroccan twist!

Royal Mansour Marrakech : Looking to be totally pampered in an over-the-top luxury hotel? The prestigious Royal Mansour is renowned for its exquisite architecture and personalized service. Each suite in this opulent property is individually designed and features lavish interiors, creating a truly luxurious and unique stay for guests!

Palais Ronsard Relais & Chateaux : A beautiful and luxe hotel with prices that are slightly more down-to-earth than some of the ultra luxurious hotels like the Royal Mansour or La Mamounia. It’s just outside of town and features ornate suites, an expansive swimming pool… and even peacocks on the property!

Amanjena : If I had to pick one hotel that I’m most keen to stay at, Amanjena would be it! Aman resorts are known for their incredible properties, friendly service and extreme attention to detail. And, the design of Amenjena looks out of this world beautiful!

Mandarin Oriental Marrakech : Located just outside of the city, Mandarin Oriental Marrakech has an enormous property with 54 private villas, expansive swimming pools, and even a golf course. Known for its elegant design, lush gardens, and exceptional service, the hotel offers a tranquil retreat with a blend of traditional Moroccan and contemporary influences.

La Sultana : While most of the luxury hotels are located outside of the Medina or a short drive away from the city, La Sultana has a prime position inside the Medina! This gorgeous riad style hotel has beautiful rooms, a rooftop terrace, an outdoor swimming pool, and even a hammam style spa.

Riad BE : This charming riad has such a gorgeous and photogenic design that it books up months in advance.  If you can nab a room, it’s worth the stay!

Riad Botanica : A riad that feels like a total oasis in the Medina, Riad Botanica has six deluxe guest rooms with ensuites.  With a tranquil ambience and exquisite design, you’re in for an ultra stylish stay.

Les Jardins De La Médina : Set within a historic riad and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Known for its serene atmosphere, traditional Moroccan architecture, and attentive service, it provides a relaxing escape in the heart of the city.

Les Deux Tours : A boutique hotel offering a peaceful oasis with lush gardens and stylish accommodations.  Guests particularly love the pool area, restaurants and friendly staff! 

Riad Kniza : A riad located in the heart of the historic Medina and known for its traditional Moroccan architecture, personalized service, and authentic decor, it provides a serene and culturally rich experience for guests. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, as well as sauna and steam room!

Dar Darma : Located in the Medina near the Grand Souk, this riad has a chic and moody Moroccan atmosphere. The suites and beautifully designed and well-appointed, and there is a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy breakfast.

Almaha Marrakech Restaurant & Spa : Another gorgeous riad option in the Medina, close to the Saadian Tombs.  Guests love the outdoor swimming pool, rooftop terrace and relaxing hammam!

Riad Livia : For my 3 days in Marrakech, I stayed at this picturesque riad in a quieter part of the Medina.  The rooms were comfortable and stylish, the lobby was filled orange blossom trees, and the rooftop had stunning views with a little dipping pool.  Each morning, the staff brought us a delicious breakfast spread on the rooftop — we loved the service and all of the food!

Riad Nelia : This beautiful riad features a stunning interior with traditional Moroccan design making it very photogenic!  Riad Nelia is very popular and sells out months in advance so make sure to plan ahead with your booking.

Riad Palais Calipau : A stunning riad, located in the heart of the Medina, that offers a traditional experience of Morocco in a lively part of Marrakesh.  Guests love the convenient location, gorgeous architecture, outdoor pool, hammam spa, and rooftop terrace — what more could you need for the perfect riad experience?!

Riad L’Atelier : This ultra stylish riad feels like a hidden gem in the center of Marrakech.  One of the most beautiful features is the outdoor swimming pool surrounded by intricate Moroccan tiles.

Riad Dar Talah :  A beautiful riad with lovely rooms, a charming terrace and freshly made breakfast each morning.  The perfect tranquil stay for your visit to Marrakech!

Traveling with a group? You can rent your own private riad to enjoy with family and friends!   Riad Alkemia is a beautifully designed riad with 6 bedrooms, a swimming pool, outdoor terrace, hammam spa, and 24 hour concierge!

Tips for Visiting Marrakech

Keeping these tips in mind will help you navigate your 3 days in Marrakech more comfortably and respectfully, enhancing your overall experience in this vibrant and culturally rich city.

Bargaining and Shopping: Bargaining is common in the souks (markets) but don’t feel pressured to buy if not interested.  While the shopkeepers can be pushy, the best thing to do is walk away if you don’t want to make a purchase. 

Quality Check: Inspect items thoroughly before purchasing, especially in markets, to ensure quality.  If you plan to make a big purchase (like furniture or rug), I would do some research beforehand on what to look out for or perhaps ask the assistance of a knowledgeable guide.  Our guide showed us some things to check for when it comes to purchasing rugs, plus he knew the most reputable shops to visit.

Sun Protection & Hydration: Use sunscreen, wear hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun because it sure is strong!  This probably seems like an obvious tip but honestly it can sneak up on you.  We were having lunch on a rooftop without shade on the hottest day of our visit and I started to feel lightheaded and dazed… We moved to a shady spot and I drank lots of water but it took a little time before I felt back to normal!

Awareness of Surroundings: Be extremely cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and be very vigilant, especially in Jemaa el-Fnaa square where you can be easily distracted by the bustling surroundings.

Say No to Unwanted Services: “La, shukraan” means “no, thank you” in Arabic and can be helpful when locals are offering you a service that they will then expect money for.  Beware of ladies who want to take your hand for a henna tattoo as they’ll demand money in exchange.  Similarly, say no to locals offering directions to your destination or the entrance to a museum.  Some tourists have been swindled and taken to an unofficial entrance where they pay a higher entrance fee.

Food Hygiene: Enjoy the local cuisine but be cautious with street food. Eat from reputable vendors to avoid stomach issues. This usually means eating at the busiest vendors — they are popular for a reason!

Ask Permission for Photos: Respect locals’ privacy and customs regarding photography. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their belongings.  I was very nervous about taking photos in the Medina as I had heard some travelers were scolded for doing so. But our guide encouraged me to do so and asked shopkeepers whose stalls I wanted to take photos in.  I made sure to avoid taking any photos of people’s faces wherever possible!

Tipping: While tipping isn’t mandatory, it is customary to tip 10-15% at restaurants and with tour guides, especially in touristy areas.  You can also leave 10-20 dirhams for service workers and taxi drivers.  And, if you’re staying in a riad, it’s also nice to leave a tip for your riad host if they have been helpful during your stay.

What to Eat in Marrakech

Marrakech offers a rich and flavorful culinary scene with a diverse range of dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Here are some must-try foods during your 3 days in Marrakech:

Chicken, Lamb, or Vegetable Tagine: Tagine refers to both the dish itself and the conical clay pot it’s cooked in. It’s a slow-cooked stew with meat, vegetables, spices, and sometimes dried fruits, resulting in tender, flavorful dishes.

Couscous with Meat or Vegetables: A staple in Moroccan cuisine, couscous is made from semolina grains and served with a variety of toppings like lamb, chicken, or vegetables in a flavorful broth.

Pastilla (B’stilla): Pastilla is a traditional Moroccan pie made with layers of thin pastry filled with shredded meat (often pigeon or chicken), almonds, spices, and topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon. It’s a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Harira: This hearty soup typically contains tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, lamb or beef, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin and coriander. It’s commonly enjoyed during Ramadan to break the fast.

Mechoui: Mechoui is a traditional whole lamb dish, slow-roasted for hours until the meat is tender and flavorful. It’s often prepared for special occasions or celebrations.

Moroccan Salads: Explore a variety of Moroccan salads, including Zaalouk (eggplant and tomato salad), Taktouka (roasted pepper and tomato salad), and others, often served as starters.

Moroccan Mint Tea: Moroccan mint tea is a staple drink made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and sugar. It’s served hot and is an essential part of Moroccan hospitality.

Moroccan Sweets: Indulge in Moroccan desserts like Baklava, M’hanncha (snake cake), or Sellou (a sweet nutty confection) often enjoyed with Moroccan mint tea.

Exploring the diverse flavors of Moroccan cuisine is an essential part of the Marrakech experience. Don’t hesitate to explore local restaurants, street stalls, and markets to savor these delicious dishes during your visit!

Marrakech Outfit Inspiration

That’s a wrap on the 3 days in Marrakech itinerary! Now it’s time to plan your visit to the Red City and experience the enchanting souks, picturesque riads, and magical desert sunsets.

→ BE Agafay Luxury Camp: the Perfect Day Trip from Marrakech

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Just a girl checking off her bucketlist, one amazing journey at a time!

Marrakech: A Guide For Your First Visit

Known as Morocco’s Pink City, Marrakech is sure to surprise you in so many ways. It has become a popular destination for tourists, especially from Europe, and one trip there will reveal why. Busy and chaotic, yet exhilarating at the same time. Planning a trip to Marrakech? Here is a guide for your first visit:

How to Prepare:

Marrakech is one of the largest cities in Morocco, so expect the hustle and bustle. Unlike the rest of Morocco, which is a Muslim country, Marrakech is actually more liberal than you would expect. I still dressed conservatively, but I was actually surprised at the amount of female tourists I saw walking around in short shorts and mini skirts. It’s important to keep in mind though, that it is still an Islamic city and you should respect the culture and dress somewhat modest. Showing shoulders is okay in Marrakech, but you should carry around a light scarf to cover up when needed.

One of the highlights in Marrakech is wandering around and getting lost in the markets. It’s impossible to go home from the souk empty handed. You’ll be tempted to buy a little bit of everything. Expect to do lots of shopping, so you will need to have cash handy. Credit cards are not widely used in Morocco, especially in the markets. Some shops may have a “we accept credit cards” sign, but don’t expect the card machines to work either due to poor internet connection. Best bet is to have cash, which you can either exchange at the airport or at a money exchange place, known in Morocco as “ bureau de change .” ATM’s are also widely available around Morocco, and you can find a couple at the famous Jemaa El Fna square.

Getting Around:

Marrakech is a very walkable city. You can get to the major attractions by foot, but taxis are also very cheap and easy to find. The traffic gets crazy as the day progresses though, so this alternative may just add travel time. However, if you need to venture out of the city center, taxi is the way to go.

English is spoken more in Marrakech compared to other Moroccan cities, so communicating shouldn’t be too difficult. In any case, I suggest having some basic words written down in French or Arabic just incase. For me, internet service didn’t function all that well when I was away from wifi, so I would also suggest having your destinations pinned on an offline map incase you need to access directions while outside.

Where to Stay:

You cannot stay in Marrakech without experience one of the hundreds of beautiful riads in the city. A riad is a traditional Moroccan home built around a courtyard. They are much smaller in size compared to a hotel, but just as beautiful, if not more. The courtyard typically includes a garden and a pool, and each room is uniquely decorated. One of the hardest decisions you’ll come across is which riad to stay in, especially since riads are quite affordable as well. My initial plan was to stay in a different riad each night, but walking around the Medina with your luggage can be difficult, especially in the heat. So, unless you want to spend money on a cab, my suggestion is to pick one riad, or pick another one that’s nearby.

I stayed in two riads: one night in Riad Jemaa El Fna , and four nights in Riad Dar Baraka & Karam . The later was my favorite of the two, as it was much more peaceful and a bit more open space. It was still within walking distance of the souks, though Riad Jemaa El Fna was right by the main square (5 minute walk). A company known as Marrakech Riads has restored many older riads, including Dar Baraka & Karam, so if you’re interested in booking this riad or similar ones, visit this link: https://marrakech-riads.com/hostel_room/dar-baraka/

Marrakech Riads doesn’t only manage riads, but restaurants as well. They renovated this riad, known as Dar Cherifa, and turned it into a traditional Moroccan restaurant. It also functions sometimes as a cultural venue, and houses many workshops and national/international events. Whether you’re stopping in for a full dinner or just for quick desert or drink, Dar Cherifa is worth checking out as well!

Things to Do:

You should plan about 3-4 days in Marrakech, more if you want to do day trips or a trip out to the Sahara. Though a lot of places are within walking distance, if you’re visiting in hotter temperatures, you will have less energy to get a lot done in just a day.

Jemaa El Fna Square

Jemaa El Fna Square is like the Times Square of Marrakech. I’d say this is the heart of the city, where all the action is. During the day, you’ll find the square mainly occupied by fruit juice stalls as well as the famous snake charmers and Barbary apes. The square gets more crowded as the day progresses, and the entertainment changes as well. The snake charmers leave, and you’ll find more story tellers, magicians and henna artists. At night time is when the square gets the busiest, and all the food stalls come out. I had been in the square as late as 11pm, and there was no sign of anyone leaving anytime soon. I loved the vibes here and it was definitely a highlight for me.

The square is also lined on each side with streets and alleys that lead to the markets of the Medina. If you want to people watch, you can also take a seat at one of the many restaurants/cafes that face out into the square.

Get Lost in the Souks

Shopping in the souks is all part of the experience of being in the Medina. With souvenirs ranging from leather goods to pottery to little trinkets, you will find it impossible to not buy anything. I also learned that Marrakech is a very popular destination to get high quality designer knock offs. You will find tons of boutiques around the square with thousands of “designer” goods, many of which look quite legit. I caved and even went home with a gorgeous YSL purse for just $130.

Once you walk further in to the alleys, you’ll eventually get lost in the maze that is the souk. That’s all part of the fun, but just remember, all the twists and turns eventually lead back to the main square (there are signs posted as well).

Take a Food Tour

Though I wasn’t a huge fan of Moroccan food, I do suggest taking a food tour in Marrakech. It was a couple of hours, but we got to taste little “appetizer” type foods I hadn’t tried yet. The food tour takes you to very local spots that you probably won’t come across on a big tour. My favorite was the briwate, which is a small triangle shaped puff pastry stuffed with cheese, veggies and/or meat.

Eat at a Rooftop Restaurant

Whether it’s at the main square or somewhere else in the Medina, Marrakech is full of tons of photo worthy cafes/restaurants that have cool rooftops. I unfortunately got mild food poisoning during my days in Marrakech, so I didn’t get to try many food spots, but I loved Atay Cafe, which has a great view of the Koutubia Mosque.

Jardin Majorelle

One of the main attractions in Marrakech is Jardin Majorelle, which is also next to the YSL museum. Though there’s not much to do here, the colorful gardens do make this spot very “instagrammable” and worth the visit. Make sure to get here early though, as the place fills up very quickly. I got there shortly after opening at 8am, and by 8:45, the crowds started coming in. It’s recommended you purchase your tickets online, where you can also get a combined ticket if you plan on visiting the YSL Museum as well.

Le Jardin Secret

Le Jardin Secret, which translates to “the secret garden,” has been recently opened to visitors. It previously housed some of the country’s most important political figures. Now, visitors can tour the complex and see the beautiful Islamic art and architecture for just 80 dirhams.

Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ben Youssef Madrasa is a former Islamic college that currently operates as a historical site. The site features a central courtyard, which is surrounded by galleries and student dormitories on the upper levels. The courtyard also features a reflective pool. Though it may not be as popular as the other attractions in the city, this was my favorite. It does get crowded at times, so I suggest visiting around 1-1:30pm, when the crowds briefly disappear.

Bahia Palace & El Badii Palace

Bahia Palace is another popular attraction in Marrakech, though it wasn’t my favorite. It’s a 19th century palace complete with a riad and two courtyards. Though it’s very frequented by visitors, when I went, there was a good amount of construction going on and it was super packed. Perhaps this made the experience less enjoyable, so I snapped a few pics and left. Overall, it was smaller than I thought. I suggest visiting El Badii Palace, which is less popular, but judging from photos, looks much more detailed and beautiful. Unfortunately, the day I visited it was closed due to some Berber festivities. Bummer.

Take a Day Trip to the Agafay Desert

I had really wanted to plan a few days out in the Sahara, but unfortunately, you need at least 3-4 days to really see the Sahara. I only had 5 days total in Marrakech, so this was not an option for me, considering the other things I wanted to do. Luckily, our cab driver suggested a sunset drive and dinner in the Agafay Desert, which is under an hour away from Marrakech. While it’s not the Sahara, it’s perfect to get that same desert experience. If you have an entire day, you can plan to ride camels and ATV’s, and you can also glamp under the stars for a night too. *For planning day trips to the Agafay Desert, or other nearby cities, you can find tourism offices offering tours all around the Medina.

For more on Morocco, click here: https://mybucketlistjourneys.blog/category/morocco/

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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. 

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

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 .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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! 

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

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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25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco

By Brianna | January 27, 2020

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Few cities capture the imagination quite like Marrakech. A blend of Berber, Arabic and French influences give this UNESCO World Heritage site a timeless appeal. With the beautiful frenzy of the Medina, ornate Arabic architecture and one of the world’s greatest cuisines it’s no surprise that more people are traveling to Marrakech now more than ever. Whether you spell it Marrakech or Marrakesh (both are acceptable), a visit to Morocco’s Red City is surely an experience you will  never forget. Marrakech can be overwhelming to say the least, with a dizzying array of sights, smells and tastes providing a sensory overload; but armed with these tips you can find the best things to do in Marrakech and make your first trip one to remember.

This post contains affiliate links. The Casual Travelist receives a small commission for any purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you

1.Airport/Transportation in Marrakech

Flights to Marrakech arrive at Menara Airport (RAK). A valid passport is required for entry into Morocco, currently for Americans visas are not required for visits less than 90 days ( check the State Department website for the latest requirements ).

Taxis are available but best to arrange transportation with your hotel. If you are staying in the Medina be aware that cars can’t make it through the narrow streets to drop you off directly at your accommodation. Your riad or hotel can arrange for staff to meet you at a drop off point and walk with you to your destination.

2.Money in Morocco

Cash is king in Marrakech as only resorts, riads, some restaurants and a handful of shops accept credit cards. ATMs can be hard to find in the Medina (much easier in the new city) so your best bet is to exchange money at the airport (this can be done for no fee). Some riads and resorts will also exchange money for you. The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham(MAD) and currently the exchange rate is approximately 9 MAD/1USD. Of note, it is also illegal to take dirham out of Morocco so make sure you spend or exchange your dirham before leaving the country.

3. Tipping in Morocco

Morocco has a big tipping culture and it is expected that you tip anyone you assists you (whether that help was wanted or not). Be sure to carry plenty of coins and small bills.

4. Dress for Women

I did not once feel unsafe as a woman travelling in Marrakech and while many women visit and have a great experience it is not uncommon to hear from women who have received unwanted attention or catcalls. Marrakech tends to be more accepting of Western attire but as Morocco is a Muslim country women are advised to dress conservatively. So what should you wear in Morocco ? This means making sure your knees and shoulders are covered ( save the halter top for Ibiza ladies ). I wore loose t shirts and lightweight pants or long skirts most days, with a wrap or scarf to cover up if I got chilly at night. Close toed shoes are also a good idea as donkeys and other animals (and what they leave behind) are a common sight in the Medina.

5. Stay in an Authentic Riad in Marrakech

For a more authentic Marrakech experience a stay in a riad is your best bet. Riads are traditional Moroccan homes centered around a courtyard located within the Medina, most are 10 rooms or less and offer up a more intimate experience. Most riads are decorated with handmade items from the local souks and many feature beautiful courtyard pools and gardens as well as rooftop terraces. There are beautiful riads throughout Marrakech for every budget, for less than $100 per night you can enjoy the boutique hospitality of Riad Al Loune  or if you’re looking to splash out  check in at the luxurious  El Fenn . I loved my stay at Riad Farnatchi , a beautifully restored guesthouse in the heart of the Medina (read my review of Riad Farnatchi here ).

Riads in Marrakech

Budget riads.

Riad Haraka

Mid-Range Riads

Riad Sapphire

Riad Annyssates

Luxury Riads

6. Luxury Resorts in Marrakech

Marrakech’s modern and fashionable Ville Nouvelle (new city) is home to some some of the world’s most glamorous resorts. For five star luxury with a decidedly Moroccan flair check out the Royal Mansour   and La Mamounia .

7.Weather in Marrakech

Marrakech is a popular destination with nearly year round sunshine. Summers (June-September) can get quite hot with temperature near 100 degrees F while the winter months can get chilly with night time temps dipping into the 30 degree F range. March-May and September-October are generally pleasant with highs in the 70s and 80s.

8.Shop the Souks in Marrakech

I’m typically not a big shopper when I travel but Marrakech is one of the few places where I wish I had shopped more. Morocco has a rich heritage of crafts and instead of the typical “made in China” souvenirs I found the souks filled with leather goods ( I got a pair of handmade leather shoes for $18 ), beautiful metal work, colorful ceramics and handmade rugs.

9.Buying Moroccan Rugs in Marrakech

I had zero intention of buying a rug went I visited Marrakech.

I now own a Moroccan rug.

Our tour guide brought us into the cooperative and I fully expected to enjoy the demonstration while sipping my mint tea and go on my way. I’m not sure if it was the intricate Berber patterns, or the softness of the camel wool but I soon found myself the proud owner of a Moroccan rug and I absolutely love it. The quality of this handmade Berber rug far surpasses any commercial rug I’ve owned before. You will find rugs of varying size and quality throughout the souks, be prepared to haggle or buy your rug from a cooperative that ensures a fair wage for the craftswomen.

10. Language in Morocco

The official languages in Morocco are Modern Standard Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) and additionally many Moroccans speak French. While most people I interacted with spoke English it’s always a good idea to learn a few words of the local language wherever you travel, here are a few common words in Arabic:

Hello -Al Salam Alaikum,

Thank You – Shukran,

Yes – naäam,

No – Laa

11. Scams in Marrakech

Scams are an unfortunate part of life in the Medina, often in the form of unsolicited help with directions, telling tourists that the street they are on is closed or “tannery tours” , all of which will then demand a payment for their services. My friend Amanda of Marocmama has excellent advice on various scams in Marrakech.

12.Consider Hiring a Guide in Marrakech

The winding streets of the Medina can be overwhelming for a first time visitor, I recommend hiring a guide for your first afternoon or morning out to get a feel for the city as well learn about the history and culture of Marrakech. Have your hotel or riad arrange a guide for you or if you hire one on your own make sure they are licensed( licensed guides will have a badge).

13. You Will Get Lost

With the narrow winding streets of the Medina and little signage the chances of you getting lost at some point is fairly high. Paper maps provided by your hotel immediately mark you as a tourist, a better option is to download an offline map via Google maps. Beware of unsolicited advice for directions ( see Scams above ), if you must ask for directions your best bet is asking a shopkeeper or restaurant staff.

14. Food in Marrakech

Food in Marrakech is a feast for all the senses. The souks are lined with rows of sweet oranges, plump dates and countless varieties of olives while the air is heavy with the scent of intensely fragrant spices from the spice market.  Gently spiced shakshuka (eggs cooked in a gently spiced tomato sauce) and spongy Moroccan pancakes are a must for breakfast. You can’t leave Marrakech without  having a tagine; a stew, usually with chicken, lamb, beef or vegetables cooked and served in a clay pot of the same name. Eating is one of the best ways to experience Marrakech and a few of my personal favorites were sfenj ( a fried doughnut drizzled with intensely floral honey), msemen (fried bread either served plain or stuffed with spices, meat or cheese),  and tanjia (succulent lamb slow roasted in clay pots for hours in underground ovens). To see where the locals eat join one of several tours offered by Marrakech Food Tours or take a Moroccan cooking class .

15. Mint Tea in Morocco

Whether served as a sign of welcome, sipped during a business transaction or enjoyed as a way to unwind in the afternoon mint tea is central to life in Marrakech. A blend of green tea and fresh mint it is traditionally served very sweet.

16. Alcohol in Marrakech

Being a Muslim country alcohol is not prevelant though you can increasingly find wine, beer and cocktails in restaurants and hotels catering to tourists (often at exhorbitant prices). Surprisingly there are even a handful of Moroccan vineyards producing Spanish style wines. Drinking to the point of intoxication (especially in public) is highly frowned upon.

17.Religion

Islam is the official state religion of Morocco, you will hear the call to prayer ring throughout the city 5 times per days and in general non-Muslims are not allowed inside mosques. Friday is the Muslim day of prayer and you may find some businesses and restaurants closed.

18. Jamma el fna

When night falls Marrakech’s main square comes alive in what’s some call the greatest show on Earth. One of North Africa’s oldest and busiest market squares it is home to a dizzying array of dancers, magicians and storytellers vying for your attention (and dirham) as well as food vendors hawking a variety of Moroccan specialties. Of note, the animals you see with the snake charmers and dancing monkey acts are usually poorly treated and it’s best not to patronize these acts.

19.Be Prepared to Bargain

Haggling is an essential part of the shopping experience in Morocco. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the vendor does not agree to a final price you are comfortable with.

20. Argan Oil and Traditional Medicine in Morocco

Argan oil is arguably one of Morocco’s best known exports, usually used for hair and skin care in the US. Many shops in the souks sell pure argan oil both for cosmetic and culinary uses. Morocco has a long tradition of using herbs as traditional medicine and I recommend a stop at an herbalist for everything from natural remedies to fragrant cooking spices.

21. Bottled Water

To avoid any tummy issues it is advised that you use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

22.Toilet Paper

Toilet paper in public restrooms is not a given in Marrakech so it’s best to carry your own. In places where there is a restroom attendant make sure you leave a small tip.

23. Going to a Hammam in Marrakech

A visit to a hammam, a traditional Moroccan bathhouse, is a must for any visit to Marrakech. A typical hammam experience starts with a steam room, a thorough scrubbing with a traditional kessa mitt and an olive based black soap and several rinses alternately with warm and cool water. For a traditional experience you can visit one of Marrakech’s community hammams ( be aware that community hammams are separated by gender, either with separate spaces or differing times for men and women) or treat yourself to an elevated hammam experience at one of Marrakech’s luxury spas. Whatever hammam experience you choose know you will be naked (or nearly naked) in front of others.

24. Top Marrakech Attractions

Ben youssef madersa.

One of the most popular sites in Marrakech, the Ben Youssef Madersa previously served as a center for Islamic learning for over 400 years.  Today visitors marvel at the intricately carved Moorish walls and stunning tile mosaics.

Majorelle Gardens

Once a private retreat for famed French designer Yves Saint Laurent the Majorelle Gardens are a beautiful mix of Berber and French cultures and provide a calming respite from the hustle of Marrakech.

Le Jardin Secret

An oasis from the chaos of the Medina, this beautifully restored courtyard features stunning tile work and lush gardens.

Bahia Palace

Considered one of the most lavish palaces in Marrakech, Bahia Palace features expansive courtyards, lush gardens and ornate architecture.

There are also many great day trips you can take from Marrakech , from the golden sands of the Sahara to the rugged peaks of the Atlas Mountains . You can also visit the blue city of Chefchaouen .

25. Photography in Marrakech

The sights and colors of Marrakech can be irresistible to photographers but before you start snapping away nonstop be aware that many people in Marrakech are not open to having their picture, or pictures of their products, taken. In fact, I saw several signs in the souks requesting no photography. The main thing is to ask permission to take pictures and be respectful if the answer is no.

More Marrakech Inspiration

Review of the Selman Hotel, a luxury hotel in Marrakech  

Make sure to include Marrakech when you’re traveling through Morocco with kids .

Planning a trip to Marrakech, Morocco? Pin this post for later!

About the Author

Freelance travel writer and blogger who seeks out laid back luxury. Focus on culinary, adventure and nature travel. [READ ALL ARTICLES]

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February 9, 2018 at 1:24 pm

This is sooo helpful as we’re likely taking our first trip to Marrakech this spring after two years of living close by in Spain! Especially BYOTP (bring your own toilet paper) – eek!

Absolutely beautiful photos too, now you’ve got me even more excited to visit!

Brianna says

March 2, 2018 at 10:31 pm

Thank you so much! Marrakech is an amazing destination.

Rhonda Albom says

February 10, 2018 at 6:02 am

The medinas in Moroccan cities were fascinating. I always stayed in riads whenever I could. The staff in the riads provided great tips on everything from where to eat down to which stalls in the souk to buy particular items from. Don’t forget, Friday is couscous day although my favourite dishes were chicken tajines with preserved lemon and olives or chicken with prunes.

March 2, 2018 at 10:32 pm

The couscous dishes were some of my favorites!

February 10, 2018 at 9:17 am

What beautiful photos you have of Marrakech!

Hannah says

February 10, 2018 at 10:24 am

This is a great list! I was nervous about visiting Marrakech because I’ve read so many negative things but your list makes it sound incredible and has totally changed my mind about going! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂

March 2, 2018 at 10:33 pm

Marrakech can be overwhelming at first but is an amazing destination!

Marissa says

February 10, 2018 at 11:21 am

I just got back from Morocco last week, so I 100% agree with all of these! I found the souks in Marrakech had the best options compared to other cities I visited. It’s also important that you mentioned you will get lost because it’s true, but it’s fine. I tried to embrace it and “purposely” get lost during the day to explore more.

March 2, 2018 at 10:34 pm

The streets can be crazy to navigate for sure!

Rocio Novarino says

February 10, 2018 at 11:41 am

Nice pictures!! I am a photographer, so I take a particular look at the pictures always!! Stunning ones!

March 2, 2018 at 10:35 pm

Brianne Miers says

February 10, 2018 at 12:10 pm

Thanks for such a thorough and helpful post, Brianna! Marrakech is very high on my list, so this will be a great resource for me. Jamma el fna sounds like an incredible sight to see! And very interesting about the sensitivities surrounding photography.

Carmelatte says

February 10, 2018 at 12:12 pm

I am totally in love with your pictures <3

http://carmelatte.co/dubai-tour-guide-firsttimers/

Esther says

February 10, 2018 at 2:57 pm

I totally agree on this. Husband and I travelled through Morocco and loved staying in Riads. Guides were worth our money, since we really didn’t like the scams. Also, after visiting Morroco twice, we now know that it can take quite a while to get into the country as queues for customs can be looong. In Casablanca I nearly finished my book waiting kn line for almost 2 hours!! #weekendwanderlust

March 2, 2018 at 10:36 pm

Hiring a guide in Marrakech was a life saver for us!

February 10, 2018 at 10:22 pm

Thanks for all the tips.. They will come handy when I plan for Morocco.. Would you recommend going solo in that country?

March 2, 2018 at 10:39 pm

I had several friends travel solo in Morocco. Like anywhere be sure to take your usual safety precautions and be aware.

February 11, 2018 at 5:21 am

Souks of Marrakech look so colorful. I am not sure if I will pick up a carpet as they are heavy to carry, but I know I will end up picking something or the other. Are there herbalists available to explain those herbs? Due to lack of explanation, I always find it difficult to buy herbs.

March 2, 2018 at 10:40 pm

The merchant was able to ship my rug to me. There was an herbalist and she was very helpful.

Claire says

February 11, 2018 at 7:03 am

Great tips! Especially for the closed shoes – I wouldn’t want to step in something unpleasant! The food sounds amazing, I love shakshuka and tagine, although the European versions of them – I’ve never had them in Morocco. I think I’d need to take a food tour to sample all the delicious dishes I can!

Carolina Colborn says

February 11, 2018 at 12:05 pm

Great tips. I remember our trip to Tangier and it is the same: getting lost in narrow alleys and poorly treated animals for show. But the colors and food are truly amazing. Lots of good photographs and meals!

Yvette Benhamou says

February 11, 2018 at 2:45 pm

My dad is from Casablanca and a Morocco has long been on my list of places I’d like to visit. Great tips and your photos are stunning.

Indrani says

February 12, 2018 at 4:29 am

You had an excellent tour there! I am relieved to know it isn’t so unsafe for women there as it sounds. Thanks for the tips on dressing. Lucky you got a rug from there, hope to have one myself. This no photography sign I saw in Sharjah, UAE too.

February 12, 2018 at 5:56 am

Great tips! Morocco is high on my list of places to visit. Actually hope to make it there around April after traveling through Asia. It just seems like a place full of life, color and more. Saving this one so I can start planning my trip there. #weekendwanderlust

February 13, 2018 at 8:14 am

Morocco seems to be a popular spot right now. It was not on my radar so you comprehensive set of tips are something I have pinned in case we travel there. It would be a toss up for me whether I stay in a traditional Riad or what looks to be great luxury accommodations. Maybe splitting my time would work. We did a hammam in Cordoba and it was so relaxing. I would definitely look for one here. I must admit I laughed when I heard you bought a rug. I too usually avoid places like this – maybe because I am afraid I too would go home with a rug!

Sandy N Vyjay says

February 13, 2018 at 12:21 pm

This is an exhaustive dossier on Marrakech. Indeed a ready reckoner for first time visitors to Marrakech. Marrakech and Morocco have been on our bucket list and we hope to get there some day. When we do this post and the tips therein are going to stand us in good stead. Who knows, we may end up being the proud owners of a Moroccan rug.

alison abbott says

February 13, 2018 at 10:14 pm

I hear you! I had no intention of purchasing a carpet either. It’s one of my most favorite purchases ever and takes me back to the medina each day I walk on it. Great tips-they are all spot on.

JeffNourse says

February 15, 2018 at 8:23 am

What a useful tips you shared with us. It is really interesting and informative post. Thank you so much for sharing it.

Kristin L. says

February 15, 2018 at 10:03 am

I remember going to Marrakech for the first time in 2005 and I was SO stressed about what to wear, so I made sure I had plenty of things that covered my knees and my shoulders. Then, to my surprise, I arrived and found all the young local women wearing the shortest mini-skirts and tank tops! I’ve been back to Morocco twice since then and don’t worry about my clothing, except if I’m going in a mosque.

Lauren Monitz says

February 15, 2018 at 1:58 pm

Morocco is just so hot right now! While I don’t like going to super trendy places, I keep seeing these amazing photos and feel like I must!

Mike from TravelAndDestinations says

February 17, 2018 at 1:34 pm

Definitely the best post I have read on Marrakech. Me and my gf are thinking of visiting this year so it’s super helpful and also good to know about the scams. I will also check out your friends post that you recommended. The city looks amazing and I can’t wait to visit!!

February 17, 2018 at 9:45 pm

Very useful tips! I’m looking at going to Morocco so this is very timely. thanks!

February 19, 2018 at 11:01 am

OMG I’ve been dying to go to Morocco all year. Your pictures made my wanderlust worse, I went back in 2008 but as a backpacker so I couldn’t bring any big souvenirs back, I want to go back with an empty suitcase and hit the souks hard!

Charlotte says

February 19, 2018 at 11:57 am

I loved this post, so many great tips! Marocco is high on my travel wish list. And I have every intention of buying one of those incredible rugs 😀 Can’t wait!

Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says

February 20, 2018 at 9:32 pm

What a great post! We are ashamed to say that we have not been to Morocco, and we even have friends to visit there! Shame Shame Shame on us. When we do go, though… we’ll be reading through your posts again! Meanwhile, your beautiful pictures are fueling our Moroccan day dreams. 🙂

March 2, 2018 at 8:15 am

Lovely post and great tips to get me ready for my trip to Morocco! Cheers!

Cory Lee says

March 2, 2018 at 9:33 am

This is such a great post! I’ll be going to Morocco next month and while I’ll be touring a lot of the country, I’m most excited for Marrakech. Awesome tips here!

Jossus Travelpics says

March 2, 2018 at 10:11 pm

I loved Marrakech and the Bahia Palace.

Bernie Watt says

April 25, 2018 at 12:27 pm

Great advice. We are so, so keen to get to Morocco and this is quite the inspiration.

Sebastian Vaz says

August 10, 2018 at 2:42 am

I haven’t been to Morocco. But I have heard lots of good things about the country. Must visit soon. Your guide will help me plan. Thanks 🙂

Violet Tellez says

August 30, 2018 at 1:29 pm

Thank you for the insightful info. I’m currently planning a trip for next spring and originally thought about joining a tour group but since I’d rather have a more relaxed schedule, an individual tour guide might be best to help me get around. Can you recommend a good company that does this, please?

We3Travel says

September 21, 2018 at 5:00 pm

Great tips and I’m glad I read them before our trip!

Marilyn Jacob says

June 21, 2019 at 1:14 am

We are travelling.to Morocco in December,so it’s our very first time.Looking forward to our.holiday.Good tips and advice made sense to.me,so I.am aware ,I will make the best and enjoy Morocco.

August 2, 2019 at 7:09 pm

the amount of times i got lost in Medina, sometimes it was fun – like in Essaouira, sometimes a bit scarry like in Marrakesh, but still at least i have stories to tell.

Katie Diederichs says

February 1, 2020 at 12:02 pm

This is SO helpful! We’ve been itching to get to Morocco, so I’m definitely saving this for later.

February 1, 2020 at 1:14 pm

The food and the night market look amazing! I always feel like Morocco is a mysterious place.

Linnea says

February 1, 2020 at 1:36 pm

Great guide! I appreciated the tip about cash. How much was your rug if you don’t mind me asking? Did you ship it home?

Kariss Ainsworth says

February 1, 2020 at 3:49 pm

I’ve been looking at going here, it is so colourful!

Diana Sahara says

October 24, 2020 at 3:08 am

yeah it s amazing. Colors and smells…

February 1, 2020 at 9:36 pm

This guide was so so helpful thank you so much and loved the recommendations and the pictures. Looking forward to go to Le Jardin Secret it makes me curious.

October 24, 2020 at 3:06 am

Very useful tips! There is also a bus to go to the medina for those traveling on budget and yeah! For sure everyone gets lost in the medina. I think it s important to point that someone will try to help you when you get lost (expecting some tip) so better to let him know you will not tip him in advance…

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12 of the best things to do in Marrakesh

Nov 30, 2023 • 11 min read

From foodie tours to seeing incredible artworks, experience the best of Marrakesh with this guide to the top things to do © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Whether you’re a dedicated bargain hunter, passionate about interiors, a spa-o-holic, an obsessive foodie, love exploring places brimming with history and atmosphere, or adore contemporary art, then you’ve come to the right place. Few places on Earth do any of these things quite like Marrakesh .

With so much dynamic creativity on the ground, deciding what to do in the Red City can be overwhelming, especially on a short trip. Here's how to experience the best of Marrakesh.

1. Discover the art of the Moroccan hammam 

The hammam and spa at Dar el Bacha, WA Spa , is the hottest newcomer to the city’s burgeoning wellness scene. And what better way to start a trip than to refresh and reset, ready for all those big adventures.

Morocco’s ancient hammam and beauty treatments are a centuries-old much cherished ritual for both cleansing and relaxation. Start with a steam session to open pores and a rub down with black, olive-oil based soap. This is followed by a vigorous exfoliation using a glove called a kessa to slough away dead skin, and an application of ghassoul , a mineral-rich clay, to detoxify and purify the skin before a final shower. Add a soothing massage, an afternoon dip and a snooze by the side of the rooftop pool for the ultimate spa day.

WA offers a range of treatments including a detoxifying hammam that uses pelargonium and grapefruit, a hydrating facial with lavender and argan oil, a 20-minute reflexology foot massage, and a blissful 90 minutes rejuvenating full body massage. Treatments start from 350 MAD.

2. Feast on all things Moroccan on the ultimate food tour

Morocco has what's considered to be one of the world's greatest cuisines and rightly so! With Berber, Arabic and Jewish influences, as well as French, Spanish and Portuguese in more recent times, and a smorgasbord of herbs and spices, aromatics and flower waters, ancient techniques and modern innovations, the different flavors and dishes to discover is mind-bending.

For a good general overview of the cuisine head to the Musée D’art Culinaire . But to taste it, let a group of Marrakshi guides with a very deep knowledge of the local food scene show you the way. Moroccan Food Adventures offers a variety of different tours from those aimed at die-hard foodies who want to delve into every detail of the night food market on the Djemaa El Fna , to more nuanced explorations that mix eating with artisan crafts workshops. Prices start from 300 MAD. 

Planning tip: If you want to turn a food loving adventure like this into a day trip , take a look at Morocco Food Adventures' Essaouria tour. It’s a long, 12 hour day, but includes comfortable private transportation, guided visits to cultural sights and plenty to eat. 

3. Soak up the city’s contemporary art scene

As the home of the annual 1-54 art fair, Marrakesh is now officially the hub of contemporary art in North Africa. And, for a relatively small city, the scope and range of galleries to discover is nothing short of extraordinary.

Ranging from places like Comptoire de Mines Galerie , which shows contemporary Moroccan artists in an old art deco villa in the heart of Gueliz to intimate venues like Galeries Siniya 28 that focuses on the works of the Art Naïf masters of Essaouira while shining a light on emerging and often female artists, there’s a lot to discover. Add landmark projects like African contemporary art museum MACAAL and important residency projects like those at the Montresso Foundation , and it's easy to build an entire weekend around the appreciation of the continent’s art. 

Planning tip: The 1-54 art fair in Marrakech takes place February 8–11, 2024 and is spread across two key venues: La Mamounia and new arts space DaDa . This is a time of year when the city really fills up, so book your flights and accommodations well in advance. 

4. Dance at sunset at Cafe Clock

Cafe Clock serves as a cultural hub that brings together locals, expats and tourists, offering activities ranging from basic Darija language classes to cooking schools. But it is especially celebrated for evening events that merge storytelling and music concerts leaving an indelible impression of Marrakesh's vibrant cultural spirit.

On Thursdays, as daylight fades, the courtyard and rooftop become a stage for skilled storytellers who transport listeners through time with tales deeply rooted in the country’s ancestral heritage. These narratives, which are simultaneously translated into English, take visitors on a captivating journey into Morocco ’s folklore and history. Evenings through the rest of the week fill with the rhythms of sunset concerts, harmonizing traditional and contemporary musical influences from the mystical oud (an instrument from the lute family), to the rather funkier Sahara Sounds, women’s band Houariyat, and Sunday sunset performances of traditional  gnawa music.

5. Visit the myriad design studios of Sidi Ghanem

The design studios of Sidi Ghanem epitomize a fusion of traditional Moroccan crafts and contemporary creativity. This artisanal enclave serves as a vibrant hub for artists, designers and craftspeople, each studio showcasing a unique blend of local artisanship and modern aesthetics from pottery and textiles to furniture and fashion.

Visit the studio of LRNCE where many of her painted ceramics and drawn objects come to life. Jajjah (114–116 QI Sidi Ghanem) is Moroccan pop artist Hassan Hajjaj’s new showroom for prints, sardine-can lanterns and cultish tea caddies, as well as being a great place for a cup of tea. Atelier Landon is an art deco lover's dream for lighting and architectural hardware, while the eclectic interiors of the  Maison Sarayan  restaurant and boutique are a joy to wander round. The Thursday special of a saffron-infused lobster roll, or Saturday brunch party, are well worth making a beeline for.

Planning tip: Getting back from Sidi Ghanem can be a real headache so take the number of your taxi driver and arrange to give them a call about 30 minutes before you want to leave (Google Translate may be useful), or arrange a pick-up time and spot with them in advance. 

6. Bargain for treasures at the country’s best flea market

Marrakesh’s Bab el-Khemis, at the main northern gate of the medina, is best known as a taxi pick-up point and one of the country’s finest flea markets. A bustling hub of trade, it occupies several blocks of the neighborhood, roughly distributed into lighting, secondhand furniture, antique doors and windows, with just about everything else you can imagine shoehorned in between.

What Marrakshis know, is that every time one of the city’s iconic hotels, restaurants or homes, comes up for a revamp, much of the stuff that made up their interiors ends up here, so you could be scoring a silver coffee set from La Mamounia , or a chair that once graced the study of one illustrious resident or other.

Planning tip: Thursdays, followed by Sundays, are the best days to visit, and if you make the time to chat with the vendors, you’ll likely come home with all sorts of treasures. 

7. Take to the skies on a hot-air balloon ride

When it comes to treating yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s worth the early morning wake-up call for the pure wow factor of Morocco's breathtaking cityscape at dawn. With the majestic peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the south, and the shapeshifting stone dunes of the Agafay Desert to the west, contrasted by the vibrant pinks and reds of Marrakesh's iconic architecture, and a sunrise that paints the entire landscape in streaks of gold and yellow, it’s an unforgettable ride.

Should you be feeling flush, a breakfast hamper with a glass of champagne doesn’t go amiss. There are now several companies offering this experience, but Ciel d’Afrique was the original and remains one of the best, having taken people up, up and away, safely and romantically for over 30 years. Prices start from 2400 MAD. 

8. Daydream poolside in an olive grove

Want to know what weekends might look like if you moved to Marrakesh? Beloved by locals and expats alike, Beldi Country Club is just a 10-minute drive from the medina and offers no less than six swimming pools, two of which are open to the public. Black tiled, 40m-long (131ft) and hidden amid fields of olive trees and roses, they bring a whole new meaning to the notion of a pool day.

Fancy a massage while you’re visiting? Book a slot at the spa. Need an activity for the kids ? Sign them up for some bread baking or a pottery course. Meanwhile you can have a little stroll around the onsite souk featuring hand-blown glass and pottery, as well as local embroidery, handwoven carpets and bags, hats, jewelry and clothing by local designers. A day pool pass with lunch costs 440 MAD. 

Detour: Farasha Farmhouse , a 30-minute drive from Marrakesh, stretches out around a 50m (164ft) pool set within a sea of olive groves. Check out the website for updates on the regular roster of events from intimate rooftop concerts to weekend pool parties. 

9. Check out Gueliz’s contemporary food scene

Marrakesh is a food city. From the night market on the Djemaa el Fna hawking everything from grilled lamb brochettes to spicy snail soup, and numerous riad restaurants serving spectacular traditional food, there’s no shortage of good things to eat. But what of the new wave? Head to Gueliz to find out.

Sahbi Sahbi is a women-run restaurant designed by Studio KO that serves the kind of Moroccan dishes you read about, but never seem to see. Plus 61 offers an Australian spin on organically grown market fresh ingredients. Petit Cornichon (27 Rue Moulay Ali) does a magnificent côte de boeuf (rib steak) with the crunchiest frites . Cantine Mouton Noir (115 Rue Mohammed el Beqal) does an excellent weekend brunch featuring treats like truffled eggs. And newcomer Petanque Social Club serves up stellar sharing plates with plentiful vegetarian options in a rambling, jasmine scented garden. 

Planning tip: Spring and autumn are the best times of year to visit Marrakech in terms of the weather, but it is very, very busy. Come in the summer and you can snag a bargain accommodation-wise. And the cool days of winter are invariably blessed with the brightest sunshine.

10. Take an early morning stroll around Jardin Majorelle

Designed by French landscape painter Jacques Majorelle in 1922, these  botanical gardens boast a wide variety of exotic plants collected from all over the world, interspersed with vibrant cobalt blue and buttercup yellow structures, and tranquil water features. Wandering its maze of paths and terraces is one of the most serene ways to soak up a bit of authentic Marrakshi culture.

The onsite Berber Museum showcases a collection of more than 600 pieces of jewelry, clothing and household objects gathered from all over the country. In the boutique, you’ll find a unique selection of gifts inspired by this heritage, reimagined in bold contemporary cuts and colors. The cafe is a lovely place to stop for coffee or a juice, breakfast or lunch, before heading off on your next adventure. 

Planning tip: Buy tickets online in advance to reserve your slot for a visit. As the most-visited site in Morocco it can get crowded, but if you aim for the first slot at 8:30am you should find them fairly tranquil.

11. Watch nightly theater as the sun sets over Djemaa el Fna

As the sun descends over Marrakesh, the Djemaa el Fna transforms into a wildly, exuberant open-air theater of acrobats and storytellers, snakecharmers and henna girls on one side, with a bustling night-food market on the other. Install yourself in one of its numerous cafes – the Cafe Restaurant Argana (traditional) and Cafe Zeitoun (cool) both have fabulous views – and watch the square come to life.

As the sky darkens, the air fills with the aroma of spices and sizzling grills. Stallholders meticulously arrange their wares, flick on their lanterns and start cooking up a feast of traditional dishes from bowls of harira (a hearty soup often including lentils, chickpeas and lamb)   and ghoulal (spicy snail soup), to sheep's head, brain and feet, fragrant tangia cooked in the embers of the hammam, smoky merguez sausages and velvety fried aubergines. Prepare for thick crowds, eye-watering smoke and one of the liveliest nights of your trip. 

Planning tip: Arrive well in advance if you want to bag a seat for sunset. The square’s evening antics are equally popular with tourists and locals. When deciding where to eat, sit down anywhere that’s busy with locals as that tells you it’s fastidiously fresh.

12. Lose yourself in the opulent Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace  – meaning "brilliance" in Arabic – stands as testament to Morocco’s love of grandeur in aristocratic circles. Commissioned in the late 19th century by Grand Vizier Si Moussa, this architectural gem evolved over decades under the skilled hands of his son and successor, Bou Ahmed, who brought in master craftspeople from Fez to create its legendary interiors.

The sprawling palace complex has a bewitching tapestry of vibrant mosaics, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and elaborate stucco work, set amidst fragrant gardens. Follow labyrinthine passageways into sun-kissed marble courtyards, each space telling the tale of hierarchy and intimacy, power and prestige, and offering a vivid glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage and the splendor of a bygone era. 

Detour: Next door to the palace is the Mellah (Jewish Quarter). Between the 16th and 20th centuries, this was home to one of the biggest Jewish communities in Morocco, with a population of around 30,000 served by 30 synagogues. Two remain – Negidim and Lazama  – both of which can be visited. Because it’s relatively untouristy, the souks here are some of the best in the city for stocking up on spices, herbal remedies and treatments for the hammam.

This article was first published Mar 20, 2020 and updated Nov 30, 2023.

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Chefchaouen, or Chaouen, is a city located in the Rif mountains, north-west of Morocco. It is famous for the remarkable buildings of different tones of faded blue of its old town. Leather and weaving workshops line its steep cobbled alleys. In the shaded central square of Outa el Hammam is the casbah with red walls, fortress and keep of the fifteenth century with ethnographic and artistic exhibitions. The octagonal minaret of the Great Mosque rises not far from there.

Marrakech, former imperial city of western Morocco, and a major economic center with mosques, palaces and gardens. The Medina is a fortified and densely populated medieval city dating from the Berber Empire, with alleys intertwined like a labyrinth, where the lively souks (markets) sell fabrics, pottery and traditional jewels. Symbol of the city, the minaret of the 12th century Koutoubia Moorish mosque can be seen for miles.

Fez (Arabic: فاس‎, Berber: Fas, ⴼⴰⵙ, French: Fès) is a city in northern inland Morocco and the capital of the Fas-Meknas administrative region. It is the second or third largest city of Morocco after Casablanca,[4] with a population of 1.1 million (2014). Located to the northeast of Atlas Mountains, Fez is situated at the crossroad of the important cities of all regions; 206 km (128 mi) from Tangier to the northwest...

Merzouga, the local tourist center, is located near the edge of the dunes. A number of companies offer camel trips from Merzouga and into the desert, taking tourists on overnight trips several kilometres into the erg, which is enough to bring the village out of sight. Erg Chebbi's proximity to the tourist center has led to the Saharan erg sometimes being referred to as "dunes of Merzouga.

Casablanca (Arabic: الدار البيضاء‎, translit. ad-dār al-bayḍāʾ; Berber languages: ⴰⵏⴼⴰ, translit. anfa; local informal name: Kaẓa), located in the central-western part of Morocco bordering the Atlantic Ocean, is the largest city in Morocco. It is also the largest city in the Maghreb, as well as one of the largest and most important cities in Africa, both economically and demographically.

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This day trip to 3 valleys and High Atlas will allow you to discover the high valleys and hilltop villages of the Atlas massif. Explore the high Atlas Mountains and discover the hidden villages outside Marrakech...

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One of the most requested day trips from Marrakech, this day trip to Mogador will permit you to explore the old city of essaouira, enjoy a full day trip to visit the port, the sekkala, old medina, the Jewish town and enjoy a fish lunch at the port...

full-day trip to ait ben haddou kasbah & Ouarzazate from marrakech

In this full day guided tour to Ouarzazate and it’s magnificent Kasbahs, will allow you to experience Ouarzazate in the best possible way. Discover the magnificent Atlas Mountains to enjoy Morocco’s most beautiful sceneries...

Full-day trip to the ouzoud waterfalls from marrakech

Take a guided full day trip to the waterfalls of Ouzoud, one of the natural wonders of Morocco. From Marrakech we reach the waterfalls of Ouzoud after 150 km of a road that takes many paths. And through magnificent landscapes....

Activities in Marrakech

Full-day marrakech guided city tour to discover the medina in marrakech

Discover the flowery palaces and innumerable monuments of Marrakech during a 3 hours guided tour and discover the history of the ocher city of the Kingdom of Morocco. Admire one of the largest mosques in the Western Muslim world...

full-day sunset camel ride in the palm grove of marrakech

Enjoy a camel ride in the palm grove of Marrakech, in this tour you will ride experience the desert of Morocco and live an experience outside the busy city of Marrakech in the quite area in the palm grove. in this experience you will enjoy...

full-day quad bike to agafay desert & takerkoust lake in marrakech

Enjoy a full day adventure of quad biking in the desert of Agafay and Takerkoust Lake from Marrakech, in this tour you will experience a life time adventure riding quad biking to explore the desert of agafay and its wonders and live an experience...

Full-day buggy biking to agafay desert & takerkoust lake in marrakech

In this raid you will see a wide variety of landscapes: plain of ourika, tea tent in homestay with a breathtaking view of a Berber village and the highest peak in North Africa. Rich in contrasts and experiences, this one-day Raid will allow you to cross a wide variety of landscapes...

Ait ben haddou

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Where to stay in Marrakech for first time: 7 Safe areas

Finding where to stay in Marrakech as a first-time visitor can be a headache. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places to stay in Marrakech for first-time visitors.

I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Marrakech for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map and areas to avoid. I’ll also share where I stayed in Marrakech and recommend some of the best hotels in Marrakech for various budgets.

Marrakech is a popular tourist destination in Morocco, located in western part of the country. Founded in 1062 by Abu Bakr ibn Umar, the city has served as a political and cultural center throughout its history.

The historic center of Marrakech, known as the Medina, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a maze-like network of narrow streets and souks (markets) that are known for their vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of goods, including spices, textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts.

Some of the must-see attractions in Marrakech include the central square Jemaa el-Fnaa, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the Majorelle Garden.

Riads are a popular accommodation option in Marrakech. Riads are traditional Moroccan houses with interior courtyards. Many Riads have been converted into boutique hotels, providing visitors with an authentic and intimate experience.

When visiting the city, you can enjoy traditional dishes such as tagines, couscous, and pastilla. The food in Marrakech often combines sweet and savory flavors and is known for its rich use of spices.

Is Marrakech safe to visit?

Yes, Marrakech is generally a safe destination to visit. But, like any other tourist destination, it has petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams, especially in crowded areas and markets. It is recommended to always be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on their belongings, and avoid walking alone at night.

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should be respectful of the local traditions and dress modestly, especially in more conservative areas.

Also beware of Terror attacks, public demonstrations, protests, and earthquakes. You should monitor the media for current situations and follow the instructions/advice of local authorities. 

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Marrakech for the first time?

The best and safe areas to stay in Marrakech for first-timers and tourists are Medina, Gueliz, Hivernage, Kasbah, Palmeraie, Agdal, and Mellah. These are great bases to book your hotels, but always be aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions, regardless of the area you choose.

Medina is the most popular area in Marrakech for a first visit. It is the historic heart of Marrakech, home to the famous Jemaa el-Fna square, traditional souks, and historical sites. There are tons of accommodations in this area, so I’m sure you will find one that suits your budget.

Gueliz is a modern and cosmopolitan area with trendy shops, restaurants, and cafes. This area offers a more European atmosphere compared to the Medina.

Hivernage is an upscale and luxurious district with many high-end hotels, restaurants, and clubs. This area is close to the Menara Gardens and the Palais des Congrès.

Kasbah is a quiet and residential area with historical sites like the Saadian Tombs and the Royal Palace. It offers a blend of authenticity and tranquility, while still having easy access to the city center.

Palmeraie is a palm oasis with luxurious resorts and hotels. It provides a serene and relaxing environment away from the city center. You’ll need to use a taxi, or hotel’s shuttle services to get to the downtown area.

During my trip to Marrakech, I stayed for 5 nights at the Riad Babouchta & Spa . It was a beautiful mid-range accommodation in a fantastic location, an easy walk into the center of the medina and major tourist attractions. My room was nice and cozy with a comfortable bed. Breakfast was lovely too.

Below is a map of the popular areas in Marrakech for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Marrakech, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in Marrakech have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. 

If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

7 Safe areas to stay in Marrakech for first-timers and tourists

Medina, without a doubt, is the overall best area to stay in Marrakech for the first time. This area is the heart and soul of Marrakech, offering an authentic Moroccan experience with its bustling souks, narrow winding streets, and vibrant atmosphere.

Staying in Medina puts you within walking distance of many of Marrakech’s key attractions, including the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and Musée de Marrakech.

The famous Jemaa el-Fna square is a vibrant hub of activity, with street performers, food stalls, and traditional markets. It’s a unique and lively experience day and night.

The Medina is renowned for its traditional souks where you can buy a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.

You can explore the diverse culinary scene with numerous street food stalls, local restaurants, and cafes serving traditional Moroccan dishes.

Medina can be busy and chaotic, especially in the central areas. It’s essential to be mindful of your surroundings and practice good navigation skills. 

Some visitors may find the narrow, labyrinthine streets a bit challenging to navigate at first, but part of the charm lies in getting lost and discovering hidden gems.

Best places to stay in Marrakech in Medina for first-timers:

Luxury ($$$): Les Jardins De La Koutoubia , 5-star cozy hotel centrally located in the heart of the city, only a short walk from Koutoubia Mosque, Jemaa el Fna- the main city square and the souks. It has 2 swimming pools, very good breakfast, a paid airport shuttle, and free parking.

Mid-range ($$): Riad El Youssoufi , beautiful 4-star riad, in a quiet area close to the city center, 15 mins walk from Jamaâ El Fna Square. It has an indoor pool and wonderful breakfasts. The hotel’s pool and garden are great places to relax after walking around all day in the heat. 

Budget ($): Riad Jnane Mogador , great 3-star traditional Moroccan inn, located in central Medina, close to everything, a short walk from the central square. The hotel has excellent breakfast, 24-hour front desk, family rooms, and stunning views from its rooftop.

Gueliz is a great location for first-time tourists who prefer a modern area with shopping, dining, and nightlife options, and close proximity to the historic center. It offers a contrast to the traditional charm of the Medina, allowing visitors to experience different facets of Marrakech.

Gueliz is known for its modern infrastructure, wide boulevards, and contemporary buildings. You’ll find a range of modern amenities, including shopping malls, restaurants, and cafes.

The area is home to numerous boutiques, international brand stores, and art galleries. If you’re interested in fashion and modern shopping, Gueliz is a great choice.

Gueliz has a vibrant café scene, making it an excellent place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in a modern setting. It also has a lively nightlife with various bars, clubs, catering to different tastes.

Best places to stay in Marrakech in Gueliz for first-timers:

Luxury ($$$): Radisson Blu Marrakech, Carré Eden , popular 5-star accommodation in Gueliz, modern and safe neighborhood of Marrakesh, close to the Carre Eden shopping center and Marrakech Plaza. It is around 30 mins walk/reasonable taxi ride from Medina. It has a tour desk, luggage storage, and family rooms. Rooms come with air conditioning and a balcony.

Mid-range ($$): 2Ciels Boutique Hôtel , 4-star accommodation located right in the center of the city, within walking distance of many of the highlights of Marrakech. There are also many interesting restaurants and cafes nearby. It has an outdoor pool, sun terrace, and an excellent breakfast.

Budget ($): Hôtel Ibn Batouta , great 3-star hotel in Gueliz in a safe area, 20 mins walk from Marrakesh Train Station. It is in a relatively quiet area compared to the medina. Easy access to lots of  restaurants, bars, and shops. They have a nice rooftop for sunbathing and swimming.

3. Hivernage

Hivernage is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and upscale experience. It’s a district known for its fine dining, nightlife, and modern amenities. 

It also has a central location close to the old town and the modern Gueliz. Easy access to Menara Gardens and Cyber Park.

Best places to stay in Marrakech in Hivernage:

Luxury ($$$): Savoy Le Grand Hotel Marrakech , popular 5-star hotel in Hivernage, between the new town (Gueliz) and old town (Medina), convenient base to explore everything. Close to Menara Mall and Menara Gardens. It has 2 swimming pools, airport shuttle services, and very good breakfast.

Mid-range ($$): Pestana CR7 Marrakech , great 4-star accommodation in an upmarket area, easy to get to places, next to high-end shopping boutiques, and 15 mins walk from Marrakesh Train Station. They had a nice buffet breakfast and good-sized rooms.

Budget ($): AppartHotel Atrani , nice accommodation with big rooms, 20 mín walk to Medina. Lots of good places to eat nearby the hotel. 5 minutes walk from train station, 15 mins taxi ride from airport and Jal Efna Square.

Kasbah is a great choice for travelers who appreciate historical charm, proximity to important landmarks, and a quieter atmosphere. It’s a suitable option for those looking to explore Marrakech’s history while enjoying a more relaxed stay.

The Kasbah is rich in history and features narrow streets, traditional architecture, and historic sites such as the Saadian Tombs, the Royal Palace, and the Agdal Gardens.

Compared to the bustling Medina, the Kasbah generally offers a quieter and more relaxed environment, making it a good choice for those seeking a more peaceful stay.

While not as bustling as the Medina, the Kasbah has its own local markets where you can experience a more authentic and less touristy shopping experience.

Best places to stay in Kasbah for first-time tourists:

Luxury ($$$): Riad Merzouga , 5-star  beautiful traditional Moroccan accommodation, located in a great area, 10 mins walk from the souks and square. CLose to everything including tourist attractions, currency exchange, restaurants, pharmacies. It has a garden, shared lounge, and shared kitchen. 

Mid-range ($$): Riad Palais Calipau , wonderful accommodation in Kasbah, 15 min walk to main square, conveniently located  between Hassan II Palace and King Mohamed VI Palace. It has 2 traditional restaurants, a rooftop terrace, hammam and pool. It also offers spacious rooms and comfortable beds.

Budget ($): Riad des Lys , 3-star good value for money accommodation located in a nice neighborhood, easily accessible to many tourist attractions. Close to Medina, Moulay El Yazid Mosque and Saadian Tombs.

5. Palmeraie

Palmeraie is an excellent base for travelers seeking a tranquil and luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a district that caters to travelers looking for a more exclusive and peaceful retreat. 

Palmeraie offers a peaceful and tranquil setting with palm groves and spacious landscapes. It provides a retreat from the bustling city center.

The district is home to several high-end resorts and hotels, often featuring luxurious amenities such as spa facilities, golf courses, and private villas.

Some resorts in Palmeraie offer outdoor activities, including golf and horseback riding, allowing guests to enjoy the natural surroundings.

Palmeraie is located farther from the historical Medina and major attractions. You should be prepared to use transportation (taxi, shuttle, or rental car) to access the city center and major attractions. 

Best places to stay in Marrakech in Palmeraie for visitors:

Luxury ($$$): Tigmiza Boutique Hotel & Spa , great 5-star hotel located in a quiet relaxing area, 20 mins taxi ride from the Medina of Marrakech. Close to Palmeraie Museum and Amelkis Golf Club. The hotel has views of the Atlas Mountains. It has Wonderful Breakfast, paid airport transfer, and free parking.

Mid-range ($$): Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech All Inclusive , great 4-star hotel in Palmeraie, offering free daily bus services from/to the Medina area. It has 3 swimming pools, gardens and a lake.

Budget ($): Palmeraie village , 3-star sustainable apartment, short drive from Yves Saint Laurent Museum and The Orientalist Museum of Marrakech. It has family rooms, free parking, and a garden.

Agdal is a good choice for travelers seeking a more local and residential experience. It offers a balance between modern amenities and a glimpse into daily life, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere away from the bustling tourist areas.

You’ll find local markets and shops where residents shop for daily necessities. This can offer a more authentic and less tourist-oriented shopping experience.

Agdal has its own cafes and restaurants, often frequented by locals. It’s an opportunity to experience Moroccan daily life away from the more tourist-centric areas.

While maintaining a local feel, Agdal also offers modern amenities such as supermarkets, banks, and pharmacies, providing convenience for travelers.

Best places to stay in Marrakech in Agdal for tourists:

• Luxury ($$$): Kenzi Club Agdal Medina – All Inclusive , 5-star accommodation in Agdal, offering  free shuttle bus to downtown. They have 3 swimming pools and a good buffet breakfast.
• Luxury ($$$: Cesar Resort & Spa , great 5-star boutique hotel, 5 mins walk from a shopping district. The hotel can help organize taxi and luggage storage for you.
• Budget ($): Jnane Leila , 4-star guest house in a calm area not far from the city center. 

Mellah is the historic Jewish quarter. Staying in Mellah allows you to experience a different aspect of Marrakech’s cultural diversity. You’ll find historical sites such as synagogues and traditional buildings.

Mellah is generally quieter compared to the bustling Medina, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a more serene environment.

Best places to stay in Marrakech in Mellah:

• Mid-range ($$): Riad Alia
• Mid-range ($$): Ksar Anika Boutique Hotel & Spa
• Budget ($): Riad Noos Noos

In conclusion, Medina, Gueliz, Hivernage, Kasbah, Palmeraie, Agdal, and Mellah are the best places to stay in Marrakech for first-timers and tourists . While these are generally safe areas to stay, it is always recommended to practice common sense and take care of your belongings no matter where you stay.

You can continue reading other popular destinations in Morocco in these articles:

• Safe areas to stay in Fes for first time
• Safe areas to stay in Rabat for first time
• Safe areas to stay in Casablanca for first time

There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Marrakech. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

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Our experience was amazing. Very well organized. During our stay there was a problem with a Riad , Insight guides solved the problem in a very professional...

Take a sensory journey through the vibrant streets of Marrakech , where ancient tradition meets modern appeal. Discover the magic of Morocco's capital with our designed 3 or 4-day Marrakech itineraries, passing through bustling souks, ornate palaces and the timeless Majorelle Garden.

How to plan a perfect Marrakech itinerary

How many days is good for marrakech, must-see places during your marrakech itinerary, itinerary #1: marrakech, high atlas and the agafay desert, itinerary #2: deserts & marrakech, itinerary #3: marrakech & other imperial cities, when is the best time to visit marrakech, getting to & around marrakech, average cost per day in marrakech, prepare for your marrakech itinerary, travel ideas for morocco, created by local experts.

10 days  / from 2399 USD

Moroccan Cities and Ultimate Sahara

From the cities to the desert - follow the footsteps of Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca, discover the blue and whitewashed buildings of Chefchaouen before heading on to Fez and consequently the desert. Stay overnight in a luxurious desert camp before continuing to Marrakech.

8 days  / from 1899 USD

Highlights of Morocco

For those short on time, this trip allows you to visit the highlights of Morocco in little over a week: the cultural capital Fez, the beautiful city of Chefchaouen, sleeping in a deluxe tent in the desert, as well as discovering Marrakech - it's time to explore Morocco!

8 days  / from 2242 USD

Luxurious Morocco

Highlights include Rabat, Fes, Chefchaouen, and a luxury desert camp in Merzouga. Privately guided activities with expert local guides allow you to truly get to know Moroccan culture and cuisine. Combine it with the best hotels and riads in the cities and you have the perfect trip.

The perfect Marrakech adventure requires thoughtful planning. Start by selecting the sights you want to visit first and that match your interests - be it historical monuments, cultural events or culinary delights. 

You'll then want to decide on the ideal length of stay, and choose the accommodation that suits your preferences , whether it's the charm of a traditional riad in the Medina or the comfort of a modern hotel in a new city. Effective transport planning, both in and around Marrakech, is also essential. 

Flexibility is key, as Marrakech often surprises with unexpected delights. To simplify your trip, use the help of ours Morocco travel experts . Whether it's historical discoveries, culinary explorations or leisurely strolls through bustling markets, our customisable Morocco itineraries allow you to create a personalised adventure.

Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, Morocco © Migel/Shutterstock

For an unforgettable Marrakech experience, it's best to set aside three or four days to delve deeper into the city's captivating tapestry. Over three days, you can explore the bustling Jemaa el Fna Square, stroll through the historic Medina with its bustling souks and marvel at the Koutoubia Mosque.

Extending your stay to four days opens up the possibility of a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or the picturesque Ourika Valley. Take time to explore the lesser-known El Badi Palace, appreciating its historical significance. Experience the city's unique blend of history and modernity, while remembering to relax to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

Get the best experience in Marrakech by choosing the best time to visit Morocco and be sure to read our Morocco travel tips .

Majorelle Garden in Morocco © Sergiy Borakovskyy/Shutterstock

You'll want to consider this must see places when planning your Marrakech itinerary.

Marrakech Medina

Immerse yourself in the heart of the city in the Medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its labyrinthine alleyways, explore the bustling souks and witness the vibrant life of Jemaa el Fna Square.

Jardin Majorelle

Discover tranquillity amidst the busy city at Jardin Majorelle. Designed by French orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle, this botanical garden is a fascinating combination of exotic plants, bright colours and artistic landscapes.

Koutoubia Mosque

Admire the grandeur of the Koutoubia Mosque, an iconic symbol of Marrakech. Admire its intricate architecture and towering minaret, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding gardens.

Bahia Palace

Experience the opulence of Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture and exquisite gardens. Explore its ornate rooms, intricate tile work and serene courtyards.

Atlas Mountains

Escape the city for a day trip to the majestic Atlas Mountains. See breathtaking scenery, visit traditional Berber villages and enjoy the tranquillity of the mountainous terrain.

Agafay Desert

Experience the enchanting desert of Agafay, a stone's throw from Marrakech. Here you can discover the unique beauty of the desert, ride camels and witness mesmerising desert sunsets.

This 5-day trip will give you an insight into Morocco in a nutshell. Days spent in Marrakech will be spent tasting a variety of delicacies, as well as hands-on cooking classes at non-profit organisations. Later, you'll head out of town to explore the desert and stay overnight at a desert camp.

On arrival in Marrakech, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. On the morning of day two , you will enjoy a guided walking tour of the old town, with free time in the afternoon. Immerse yourself in a small group 'Taste of Marrakech' tour, exploring hidden food shops and sampling delicacies in the souk. 

On the third day , attend a cooking class where you'll be shown the bold flavours of Morocco. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to visit the famous Majorelle Gardens. 

On the fourth day , you'll head into the High Atlas Mountains, exploring Berber villages and the picturesque Wirgan Valley before settling into luxury camping in Agafay. Day five will begin with a sunrise camel ride before departing for Marrakech airport. Read more .

BenHaddou, Morocco © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this 5-day Marrakech itinerary:

• Arrival in Marrakech.
• Overnight in Marrakech.
• Marrakech City Tour.
• Taste of Marrakech small group tour.
• Marrakech cooking class.
• Marrakech sightseeing.
• From Marrakech to High Atlas and Agafay.
• Camping in Agafay.
• From Agafay to Marrakech for departure.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now .

Tuareg nomads camel in Sahara desert, Morocco © Shutterstock

From the charming city of Marrakech through the valleys and on into the desert, this delightful trip packs many highlights into a very short time. Ideal for those who want to discover Morocco in a few days without spending too much time travelling.

Upon arrival in Marrakech, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Day two begins with a walking tour of the charming city, where you will explore its medieval heart, the Jema el Fna Square and the iconic Koutoubia Minaret. Indulge in a small group 'Taste of Marrakech' tour in the afternoon. 

On the third day , you'll head into the High Atlas Mountains, travelling through Berber villages and reaching Agafey, where you'll spend a luxurious night in tents. On the fourth day , you'll head into the remote Erg Chigaga desert, trekking on camels and staying overnight. 

On the fifth day , return to Marrakech via Taznakht, completing your adventure. Departure on day six from Marrakech or Casablanca will mark the end of your unforgettable Moroccan journey. Read more .

Marrakesh, Jemaa el Fna © Shutterstock

Check this 6-day Marrakech itinerary:

• From Marrakech to the High Atlas.
• Arrival to Agafay.
• From Agafay to Erg Chigaga.
• Camel trekking in Erg Chigaga.
• Camping in Erg Chigaga.
• From Erg Chigaga to Marrakech.
• Transfer to Marrakech of Casablanca airport and departure.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now .

Taditional moroccan cafe in Marrakesh © Shutterstock

On this in-depth trip , you'll explore Morocco's cities - discover Casablanca , the setting of the classic film, before heading to Morocco's capital. From the bustling streets of Rabat , you'll move on to the blue and white buildings of Chefchaouen before travelling to Fez and from there to Marrakech.

Arriving in Casablanca, you will settle into your hotel and in the evening you can soak up the romantic atmosphere. On your second day , stroll along Corniche Boulevard, experiencing the charm of Casablanca. See the grandeur of the Hassan II Mosque before transferring to Rabat.

Day three offers a leisurely exploration of Rabat before your journey takes you to Chefchaouen in the afternoon.

On day four , you'll immerse yourself in the charm of Chefchaouen, walking through its winding streets. The day will end with a transfer to the historic city of Fez.

On the fifth day , Fez will open up its ancient medina, Fez el Bali. Day six will begin with a journey to Meknes , known as the 'Versailles of Morocco', and the journey continues with a transfer to Marrakech.

On day seven , you will explore Marrakech. Day eight takes you to the coast to Essaouira , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The dawn of day nine marks the end of your Moroccan odyssey. A transfer to Marrakech or Casablanca airport completes your journey. Read more .

Blue City - Chefchaouen, Morocco © Shutterstock

Check this 9-day Morocco itinerary:

• Arrival in Casablanca.
• Overnight in Casablanca.
• Casablanca City Tour.
• Casablanca to Rabat with city tour.
• Overnight in Rabat.
• Rabat morning at leisure.
• From Rabat to Chefchaouen.
• Camping in Chefchaouen.
• Chefchaouen City Tour.
• From Chefchaouen to Fez.
• Overnight in Fez.
• Full-day Guided Tour of Fez.
• Via Meknes to Marrakech.
• Day trip to Essaouira.

Create lasting memories in Morocco - book your trip with us .

Bab Bou Jeloud Gate (Blue Gate) - Fez © Shutterstock

The best times to visit Marrakech are spring ( March to May) and autumn (September to November ) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Spring brings blooming landscapes and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn offers similar conditions, with warm days and cool evenings, ideal for visiting the city's attractions.

Summer (June to August) can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). While some travellers may find this period challenging, those who don't mind the heat can still experience the charm of Marrakech, especially if they plan activities for the cooler mornings and evenings.

Winter ( December to February ) is usually mild during the day, but the evenings can be chilly. This season is a good time to visit Marrakech for those who prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the intense summer heat.

For a clearer understanding of the weather conditions in Morocco throughout the year, we recommend that you closely study our guide to the best time to visit Morocco .

Getting to Marrakech is convenient thanks to Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK), located just 6 kilometres from the city centre and connecting it to international destinations. Trains and long-distance bus companies such as Supratours and CTM offer efficient ground transport, providing scenic views if you decide to take a day trip from Marrakech to Casablanca or from Marrakech to Fez .

Once you're in Marrakech, navigating the city becomes a delightful adventure. The labyrinthine Medina, home to bustling souks and the Jemaa el Fna square is best explored on foot. Taxis, both small and large, offer convenient transport, while bicycles and horse-drawn carriages (caleches) offer unique alternatives. Rental cars, guided tours and public buses in the city's newer neighbourhoods further enhance your ability to get around Marrakech and immerse yourself in its vibrant charm.

In Marrakech, everyday expenses cater for different budgets. For budget travellers, affordable accommodation and street food cost between $30 and $70. Mid-range options offer comfortable accommodation and meals for between $80 and $190, while luxury travellers can indulge in upscale accommodation and gourmet meals costing over $200 per day. 

Transport costs depend on preferences: budget travellers may use public transport and the occasional taxi, mid-level travellers may use taxis and private transfers, and luxury travellers may use private and luxury transport, totalling between $15 and $50 per day. These estimates represent a flexible range that takes into account a variety of experiences in Marrakech.

Inspired? Browse our customisable Moroccan itineraries to start planning your perfect trip, and read The Rough Guide to Morocco or Pocket Rough Guide Marrakech .

Daunted by the prospect of planning? Talk to our local Morocco travel experts .  We'll craft a personalised itinerary just for you.

Prefer to do it alone? Feel free to browse our pre-designed Morocco itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs. For more inspiration, discover some of the the best things to do in Morocco .

Prefer to do it alone? Get yourself a copy of The Rough Guide to Morocco and start planning your trip with our Morocco travel tips .

The Rough Guides to Morocco and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Morocco

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Morocco

• Culture and Etiquette in Morocco
• Eating and drinking in Morocco
• How to get to Morocco
• How to get around in Morocco
• Shopping tips for Morocco
• Tips and travel advice for Morocco
• Travelling with children in Morocco
• Best time to visit Morocco
• How to get a Morocco Visa

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written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 20.05.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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Private Day Trip To Ourika Valley And Atlas Mountains From Marrakech

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Marrakech First Trip - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Marrakesh

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Marrakesh is a city that effortlessly combines the ancient and the new. The city's name provided the root for the name of the country itself, spelling out this town's importance through the ages.

Within the high red walls of the medina, just soaking up the atmosphere is the main tourist attraction with snake charmers and smooth shop touts both competing for your attention amid a noisy, colorful bustle that encapsulates Morocco's vibrant soul.

For shoppers, Marrakesh's souqs are the best place to visit in Morocco, offering the full scope of the country's artisan work, while the medina's scatter of richly decorated heritage buildings are some of the country's most famous monuments.

Marrakesh is also the gateway into the High Atlas region, Morocco's major activity area, with hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and many other active things to do. Even on a short visit, you can experience a taste of Morocco's mountain life on one of the many Marrakesh day trips offered from the city.

Discover what the city has to offer with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Marrakesh.

1. Shop the Medina Souks

2. experience djemaa el fna after dark, 3. stay in a medina riad hotel, 4. admire the koutoubia mosque, 5. stroll around majorelle gardens, 6. visit the medersa ben youssef, 7. soak in a hammam, 8. be dazzled by bahia palace, 9. hot-air balloon ride over the marrakesh countryside, 10. cycle or horse ride in the palmeraie, 11. check out the saadian tombs, 12. visit dar si said, 13. admire the interiors of marrakesh museum, 14. explore the badi palace, 15. peek into the almoravid koubba, 16. picnic in manara gardens, 17. photograph the marrakesh tanneries, where to stay in marrakesh for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to marrakesh, map of attractions & things to do in marrakesh, history of marrakesh.

For many visitors, Marrakesh's labyrinthine medina (old city) district is the town's star attraction.

The narrow alleyways are a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds and are bound to be the sightseeing highlight of your trip.

As well as simply wandering (and getting lost) amid the bustling maze, there are myriad shopping opportunities where you can put your haggling hat on and barter to your heart's content.

The main souq area is the tangle of lanes between Place Rahba Kedima and Place Ben Youssef.

Just off Place Ben Youssef, you'll find Fondouq Namas, an old trader caravanserai that is now home to plenty of carpet shops. Place Rahba Kedima itself is one of the main medina areas for buying spice and spice mixes.

Souq Haddadine is the metalworkers area, while just to the north is Souq Cherratine, where the leatherworkers have their workshops.

The narrow crisscross of lanes between the main thoroughfares of Souq el-Kebir and Souq Smata is full of traditional clothing stalls, while if you follow Souq Lebbadine west, you'll end up amid the skiny alleys of Souq Teinturiers (the Dyers souq).

This large square at the entry to the medina is the center of Marrakesh life.

The Djemaa El Fna (assembly place of the nobodies) is a vibrant hub of bric-a-brac stalls, musicians, storytellers, fortune-tellers, and snake charmers that springs into life from late afternoon daily with entertainment carrying on until midnight.

An evening spent here wandering between the acrobat troupes and local musical groups is a truly Moroccan experience.

At sunset, the northern section of the square fills with stalls serving cheap meals and snacks. It's also easy to escape the chaos of the square for a time-out at one of the many cafés that rim the square. Many of these cafés also offer the best panoramic views of all the Djemaa El Fna action from their rooftops.

Address: Avenue Mohammed V, Marrakesh

Marrakesh's riad hotels are an experience in themselves, and for many travelers, a visit here is as much about the hotel as it is about the city.

A riad is a traditional medina mansion, centered around a courtyard. Over the past few decades, many have been restored, revamped, and opened as boutique hotels, usually in the luxury and mid-range category (though Marrakesh even has a backpacker hostel based in a restored riad).

Some are palatial in both historic ambience and their Moroccan artisan features, while others blend contemporary style with traditional design.

Modern comforts and amenities such as plunge pools and on-site hammams (Turkish baths) are common in the larger riads, and many also provide evening meals on request.

The Koutoubia Mosque is Marrakesh's most famous landmark with its striking, 70-meter-tall minaret visible for miles in every direction.

Local Marrakesh legend tells that when first built, the muezzin (man who calls the faithful to pray) for this mosque had to be blind, as the minaret was so tall, it overlooked the ruler's harem.

The mosque was built in 1162 and is considered one of the great achievements of Almohad architecture.

The archaeological excavation area on the northwest side of the minaret displays the foundations of the earliest mosque built on this site. It was destroyed by the Almohads and replaced with the current mosque.

Non-Muslims are not allowed into the Koutoubia Mosque itself.

These lush tropical gardens full of cacti, palms, and ferns, are the work of painter Jacques Majorelle.

Originally from the town of Nancy in France, Majorelle came to Marrakesh for health reasons and became well known for his paintings of local Moroccan life.

His most famous work, though, was this garden and the vibrant blue (the color now known as Majorelle blue) painter's studio he lived in on the grounds.

After Majorelle's death in 1962, French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent bought the property, and upon his death in 2008, his ashes were scattered in the gardens.

Within the grounds, Majorelle's old painting studio is now home to a fabulous museum dedicated to Berber artistry.

Just next door to the entrance into the gardens is a museum dedicated to the life and fashion legacy of Yves Saint Laurent, which also hosts a program of temporary exhibitions.

Address: Avenue Yacoub el Mansour, Marrakesh

The sumptuously decorated Medersa of Ben Youssef is one of the finest examples of Saadian era artistry in Morocco. This theological college (completed in 1565), directly opposite the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque, once homed 900 students and was the largest center for Quranic study in the country.

The warrens of rooms where students once slept are clustered around small internal courtyards in typical Islamic architecture style, but the main internal courtyard is the real highlight here.

The fine zellige tiling, stalactite ceilings, cedar-wood detailing, and Kufic inscriptions used as decoration across the courtyard's interior make this medersa one of Morocco's most beautiful buildings and a star medina attraction.

Navigating around the medina can be hot, dusty, and crowded work but luckily there's a traditional way to relax and rejuvenate after your sightseeing and shopping is done.

A hammam is a traditional communal bath (often called a Turkish bath) with a multiple domed interior dedicated to bathing. The process at its most basic consists of steaming, washing, and then exfoliating your skin, with a short massage as an additional service.

While public hammams are scattered throughout the medina and still serve the community, many historic and contemporary-built hammams provide hammam experiences directly aimed at visitors and are a great introduction to Moroccan hammam culture.

Some of the more luxurious hammams also provide modern spa add-ons with a host of beauty treatments and massages available.

This magnificent peacock of a palace was built in the late 19th century as the residence of the Grand Vizier Bou Ahmed, who served Sultan Moulay al-Hassan I.

The interior decoration is a dazzling display of Moroccan artisan work combining zellige tiles, painted ceilings, and ornate wrought-iron features showcasing the opulent lives of those high up in the sultan's favor at that time.

The massive marble grand courtyard and opulent salons of the haram area are the two main attractions, while the lush internal courtyard of the grand riad, with its banana-leaf plants and citrus trees, is a tranquil respite from the city.

Address: Rue Riad Zitoun el Jedid, Medina, Marrakesh

Several companies run sunrise hot-air balloon ride tours in Marrakesh, which provide panoramic views across the city, the palm groves, and surrounding arid plateau and the spine of the Atlas Mountains in the distance beyond.

For photographers, the dramatic vistas are definitely worth the early-morning start.

Flights generally take off just after sunrise and usually include an hour of flight time with a picnic breakfast of traditional Berber dishes offered after the flight, and return transfers to the city center.

Higher priced tours often include a camel ride or quad bike tour after the hot-air balloon ride or offer private baskets rather than sharing the balloon basket with other passengers.

Marrakesh's Palmeraie (palm groves) area is just to the northwest of the city.

Containing around 50,000 date palm trees, the palmeraie is an alternative to staying in central Marrakesh, with plenty of villa-style luxury boutique hotels.

If you are not staying in the palmeraie, though, you can still enjoy a time-out from the city in this tranquil, shady haven as it's a popular destination for cycling, horse riding, and quad-bike tours, as well as camel rides.

Palmeraie half-day cycle tours are offered by a couple of local companies and thoroughly cover the area, while Palmeraie-based stables offers horse rides that explore both the palmeraie and some of the surrounding countryside.

This 16th-century burial ground is home to 66 members of the Saadian dynasty, which ruled over Marrakesh between 1524 and 1668.

The tombs here include that of the ruler Al-Mansour, his successors, and their closest family members.

It's a rambling, atmospheric place, with the mausoleums set amid a rather overgrown garden.

In particular, the main mausoleum (where Moulay Yazid is buried) has a fine surviving mihrab (prayer niche).

The Saadian Tombs were walled up by their Alawite successors and were only rediscovered in the early 20th century.

The entrance to the Saadian Tombs is the small alleyway next to the southern wall of the Kasbah Mosque.

Address: Rue Kasbah, Medina, Marrakesh

This lovely old palace built by Vizier Si Said is home to a wonderful collection of Berber jewelry in finely worked silver, oil lamps from Taroudant, pottery artifacts, embroidered leather, and marble.

There is also a display of Moroccan carpets and an amazing collection of traditional Moroccan door and window frames, which highlight this country's local architecture styles.

For anyone interested in the evolution of North African art and crafts, it's a lovely place to potter about for a couple of hours.

Near the Dar Si Said, the Maison Tiskiwin has a rather wonderful collection of costumes, jewelry, arms, musical instruments, textiles, and furniture (focused on Saharan culture) put together by Dutch art historian Bert Flint. Another branch of the museum is in Agadir .

Location: Off Rue Riad Zitoun el Jedid, Medina, Marrakesh

The Marrakesh Museum (Musee de Marrakech) has an eclectic collection ranging from contemporary art to Qur'anic inscriptions, with local ceramic work, textiles, and coins thrown in for good measure.

For most visitors, the real highlight of a visit here, though, is the building itself.

The museum is housed in the Mnebhi Palace, which was originally the residence of Mehdi Mnebhi (a minister in Morocco's government) but was later home to Pasha Thami Glaoui, ruler of Marrakesh.

The architecture is a harmonious blend of local North African form with Portuguese elements, and features an extremely impressive central courtyard area complete with a lavish chandelier.

Address: Place Ben Youssef, Medina, Marrakesh

The ruins of Al-Mansour's once grand palace are one of the kasbah area's most atmospheric sights. The Saadian ruler built the opulent palace, with pavilions set amid a mammoth garden of reflective pools, during his triumphant reign, but it was plundered and destroyed soon after.

Now the sparse remnants of mosaic-tiled floors, ruined pavilions, and the high enclosing walls are all that remain. There are excellent views across the medina from the top of the walls, where storks have also built their nests.

After viewing the palace, head to the nearby Mellah , the old Jewish quarter of Marrakesh. It was established in the 16th century and is now populated mainly by Muslims.

The small synagogue here has been nicely restored and can be visited, as can the vast Jewish cemetery.

Also known as the Koubba Ba'adiyn, the Almoravid Koubba is Marrakesh's oldest monument still standing, built in the 12th century during Ali Ben Youssuf's reign.

Although its original use is unknown, some experts have suggested that it may have been the ablution house of a mosque that once sat next door.

Its simple exterior design (a squat, square building topped with a dome) belies an interesting interior, with a dome ceiling covered in Almoravid motifs.

The koubba was one of the few buildings to survive the damage inflicted by the Almohad conquerors, who destroyed much of the earlier Almoravid architectural legacy.

Address: Place Ben Youssef, Medina

This huge garden, once a royal retreat, is a bubble of serenity hidden right in the heart of Marrakesh. It's a favorite spot for locals who want to escape the hustle and enjoy some peace and quiet.

The majority of the area is taken up with olive groves, but for visitors, the main attraction and reason to come here is the large reflective pool with its fine pavilion. Built in the late 19th century, the pool and pavilion are a favored spot for many local Marrakesh families, who come here to picnic and stroll.

There are excellent photo opportunities here of the pool with the Atlas Mountain Range reflected in its water, on a clear day.

Address: Avenue Menara, Marrakesh

Marrakesh's tanneries district is smaller than the one in Fes but just as atmospheric. This is where the leather hides, used for the colorful shoes, bags, and other products you'll find in the souks, get dyed in a myriad of shades.

Come here in the morning if you want to see the tanners working in the colored vats of dye.

For photographers, there are great views over the entire area from some of the leather workshops, which rim the tanneries. You need to pay the shop a tip to enter and head up to their balconies or rooftops, and do expect the staff to try to get you to linger and buy something.

Address: Rue Bab Debbagh, Marrakesh

If you're visiting Marrakesh for the first time, and want to be in the heart of the action, the best area to stay is in the medina, near the Djemaa El Fna, the large square at its entrance. Some of the best-value accommodation options here are riads, traditional Moroccan guesthouses with inner courtyards that are shielded from the hustle and bustle of the medina outside; breakfast is usually included in the price.

Luxury Hotels:

• Oranges and rose blossoms perfume the air at La Villa des Orangers , steps away from all the medina attractions and the Koutoubia Mosque. This is a Relais & Châteaux property, with three patios, a rooftop pool, and a spa with a hammam.
• In the medina, near the entrance to the old souk, Riad Dar Anika is a more affordable luxury option, with a lovely courtyard pool and warm Moroccan hospitality.
• If you prefer to stay away from the hubbub of the medina, the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech is a taxi ride away. Facilities include palm-lined pools, a spa, fitness center, and kids' club.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the heart of the medina, the evocatively-named Riad Romance resides in a restored 17th-century building , with a lovely courtyard pool, cozy rooms, and a rooftop garden.
• Also in the medina, Dar Charkia , with a heated swimming pool, is in the Dar el Bacha antique dealers district. All the rooms are air-conditioned, and many come with a fireplace.
• Riad Karmela is a soothing oasis amid the medina, with a spa, restaurant, and personalized service. With its family apartments, it's a great choice for those traveling with kids.

Budget Hotels:

• In the medina and with a pool, Riad Sadaka has comfortable and cozy rooms and serves up tasty Moroccan cuisine, while Riad L'Orchidee has air-conditioned rooms, a plunge pool, and plenty of inviting nooks for relaxing and dining.

Taking an organized tour is a great way to see all the highlights of Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains and experience the traditional culture without the hassle of finding your way around. Along the way, you'll learn all about the area's history, as well as insider tips and stories. These tours also include convenient pickup and drop-off at select hotels.

• Full-Day City Sightseeing Tour : The Marrakesh Discovery Tour allows you to relax and enjoy the sights while a local guide takes you on a tour through the city's labyrinthine backstreets and bustling souks, as well as historical highlights such as Bahia Palace and the Koutoubia Mosque. This full-day tour includes lunch at a medina restaurant, entrance fees, and pickup and drop-off from select hotels.
• Half-Day City Sightseeing Tour: Alternatively, the Marrakesh Half-Day Private City Tour offers three to four highlights of the city with stops at Majorelle Gardens, Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs followed by a medina walking tour. Transport is included.
• Small-Group Atlas Mountains Day Trip : The Four Valleys Day Trip from Marrakech with Optional Visit to Takerkoust Lake and Kik Plateau is the perfect complement to a hectic city stay. This full-day tour gives you a great overview of the Atlas mountains, with a visit to three lush valleys, traditional Berber villages, Ourika Valley waterfalls, an optional lunch in a Berber home, and an optional upgrade to include the Takerkoust Lake and Kik Plateau. This is a small-group tour with more personalized service and a maximum of seven people.
• Toubkal National Park Day Trip : The Atlas Mountain Three Valleys Day Trip is a private full-day tour of the beautiful scenery in and around Toubkal National Park, with an included lunch and visit to a traditional Berber home. As well as all transport being included, with pickup and drop-off from Marrakesh hotels, the tour itinerary includes a short hike (or mule ride) from Imlil to the tiny mountain village of Ait Souka, a visit to an argan oil cooperative, and a camel ride.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride : The Atlas Mountains Hot Air Balloon Ride offers a different perspective on the desert and Atlas Mountain foothill scenery surrounding Marrakesh. On this morning adventure, you take a hot air balloon ride for bird's-eye views. Afterwards, descend to ground level for a delicious Berber breakfast and a camel ride in Marrakesh's Palmeraie. Also included is a flight certificate, as well as pickup and drop-off from select hotels.
• Camel Ride : The Sunset Camel Ride is a great way to explore the sandy trails of Marrakesh's Palmeraie area, shaded by date palms as you ride. The ride takes around one hour and ends at a traditional Berber house with included mint tea and snacks. Pickup and drop-off from Marrakesh hotels is included.

The Almoravides made Marrakesh the capital of an empire that covered most of the Maghreb (Northwest Africa) and extended well into Europe.

With the Almoravide conquest of southern Spain, Marrakesh was invested with the cosmopolitan culture of Andalusia and became a bastion of Islamic civilization and an intellectual center where the most famous scholars and philosophers of the age converged.

Lavish buildings were constructed and splendid gardens designed. The ancient ramparts and gates of the city are monuments to its medieval preeminence.

Almohade armies stormed the gates of Marrakesh on March 23, 1147, conquering the Almoravide capital.

The Almohades under Abdal Mou'min continued their conquest of North Africa, extending their empire through Algeria and Tunisia and moving across the Mediterranean to capture Seville, Cordoba, and Granada. Under Abdal Mou'min, Marrakesh became an even greater Islamic capital.

Marrakesh went into a period of decline under the Merenids, who captured the city in 1269. The Merenid capital was already centered in Fes, and Marrakesh fell into neglect for two and a half centuries.

The fortunes of Marrakesh revived under the Saadian dynasty. The Saadians were tribesmen from the Souss region, who conquered the whole of southern Morocco in a war against the Portuguese colonialists in Agadir.

When the Saadians gained control of the whole of Morocco, their leader, Mohammed Al Mahdi, made Marrakesh his capital in 1551 and began to restore the city.

Although the new city district of Marrakesh was constructed in 1913 during the French occupation and reflects this European influence, the majority of the city (like Fes) is a genuinely Islamic city in both its genesis and traditions.

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After Marrakesh: You can explore some of the most beautiful valleys and gorges of the High Atlas area on day trips from the city but to really delve into this vast region of snowcapped peaks, palm tree oases, and mudbrick kasbahs, take a journey into the High Atlas itself.

Head to the Coast: Head west to the Atlantic coast to check out some other Moroccan cities. Casablanca is a bustling city and home to the Hassan II Mosque. The capital, Rabat, has a medina perched right on the coast, and Agadir is Morocco's top beach break city, with a swathe of white sand.

More on Morocco

Where to Stay in Marrakech First Time: 9 Best Areas

In this guide, we will be looking at Where to stay in Marrakech first time , the best areas to stay in Marrakech for tourist (with amap and video) and the best hotels in Marrakech for all budgets (including the hotel where I stayed).

The Moroccan city of Marrakech, or Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in the Kingdom of Morocco. It is a cultural hub, with something to appeal to any traveler. With a history stretching back almost a thousand years, this former capital city has expanded and evolved quickly within the last century. 

Now a sprawling metropolis and globally renowned tourist destination, Marrakech is often known as the culture and tourism capital of Morocco, and for good reason. 

Where to stay in Marrakech first time?

The best areas to stay in Marrakech for first-time tourists are Medina, Kasbah, Gueliz, Hivernage, Chrifia, Agdal, Palmeraie, and Kennaria. These are the city’s most popular and safe neighborhoods that offers a wide variety of attractions and amenities

In general, Medina is the overall best area to stay in Marrakech for first-timers due to its proximity to major attractions and its wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops.

If you are looking for the nightlife, look into Gueliz, which is home to many bars and nightclubs, and live music venues.

Riads are traditional Moroccan houses that have been converted into bed and breakfasts or hotels. Typically found in more traditional areas of the city, they consist of private rooms, with shared common areas, often set around a central courtyard.

Despite their traditional history, you won’t lack modern conveniences, as most Riads have been updated with air-conditioning and wi-fi. If you have any interest in immersing yourself in the culture and tradition of Marrakech, stay in a Riad. Inarguably they offer the most authentic experience. 

To book hotel, I recommend spending at least three days in Marrakech , which is enough to see major attractions, get the sense of the local history and culture. If you have more days, take the day trip to to Merzouga, the Dadès Gorge, and the fortress of Ait Ben Haddou.

Where did I stay in Marrakech?

When I visited Marrakech, I stayed for 5 nights in Medina at the beautiful Riad Janate & SPA . It was located in a quiet safe location, within walking distance from many tourist attractions such as the souk, Jema Al Fenna, and Bin Youssef Madrasa and. I had a lovely breakfast.

Map of areas and neighborhoods in Marrakech:

Best areas to stay in Marrakech for tourists are:

Medina is the overall best area to stay in Marrakech for first-time travelers due to its prime location. Staying here allows you to be located in the middle of action, within short walk to top attractions such as Bahia Palace, and Jemaa el-Fna square, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.

Founded around 1070 by the Almoravids, the Medina of Marrakesh is the old city of Marrakech , contained within the 19-kilometers ancient, pink city walls. Until a little over a century ago the majority of Marrakech was contained within this area, making it a hotspot of culture, history, and tradition.

In fact, this area is so steeped in cultural significance that UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site in 1982. Medina is the perfect place to stay if you really want to sink into the history and atmosphere of ancient Marrakech.

The most iconic attraction of Medina is the Jemaa el-Fna square , the primary market square in Marrakech. Packed with street performers, food vendors, and Morocco’s largest souk, it’s an excellent spot to spend an afternoon. 

The entertainment continues after nightfall, so if you’re looking for a place to grab dinner, consider one of the many cafes lining the square. Between the year-round warm weather and varied buskers, the street terraces of Jemaa el-Fna are a great place to have a meal.

Outside of the main square, the medina consists of a virtual labyrinth of backstreets . It’s easy to get lost wandering around the souks but well worth it to take in the historical architecture and traditional atmosphere. 

The shops that you’ll find in this district are also excellent places to pick up souvenirs with a distinct Moroccan flare. Souk Semmarine is one of the places where you can buy rugs, leather goods, and silverware.

Koutoubia Mosque was built in the 12th century, the highest structure and the largest mosque in all of Marrakech. The 19th-century Musee Dar Si Said is one of the most popular folklore museums in Marrakesh.

The Bahia Palace was built in the 19th century with Andalusian and Moorish architecture. The building has 150 rooms with colorful tile mosaics, many patios, and lush gardens. The harem of Abu Bou Ahmed’s four wives and 24 concubines are the most fascinating parts of the visit.

You can learn more about culture, history, and the former Moroccan way of life at the Maison de la Photographie , a gallery that displays 8,000 photographs of Marrakech between 1870 and 1950.

Another interesting attraction nearby is the 19th century Marrakech Museum , which is housed in the beautiful Dar Menebhi Palace . You can grab a mint tea at the cafe outside. Right next to the Marrakech museum, you will also see the beautiful building of Madrasa Ben Youssef, a former Islamic College.

Being the oldest part of Marrakesh, this area is also widely populated with riads so, if that’s the sort of accommodation you’re most interested in, this is a great area to start looking.

Stay in Medina Marrakech if you are first time travelers; you love history, you want to visit the Bahia Palace, you want to experience traditional Morocco, you would like to stay in a riad, you love browsing markets.

Best Places to Stay in Marrakech in Medina for first-timers :

luxury ($$$): Les Jardins De La Koutoubia This luxurious 5-star hotel is located within a short stroll from Jamaâ El Fna Square, Menara Gardens. It provides a Carita Spa, a hot tub, an outdoor swimming pool, a hammam, a heated indoor pool, a piano bar on the rooftop terrace, an airport shuttle, and free private parking.

mid-range ($$): Riad Palais Sebban This 4-star stylish riad is situated close to Jamaâ El Fna Square and Koutoubia Mosque. It offers a swimming pool and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, a buffet breakfast, and free wifi. It has air-conditioned rooms with a minibar, a seating area, en suite bathrooms with a bathrobe, and complimentary toiletries upon arrival.

budget ($): Riad Spa Sindibad Located in the medina, a short stroll from the Bab Yacout gateway in Marrakech, Majorelle Garden, and Jamaâ El Fna Square is 25 minutes away from this riad. It has a swimming pool on the patio and a hammam. Traditional Moroccan meals can be prepared by the on-site chef, prepared with fresh market produce.

See more: The 27 Best Things To Do In Marrakech Morocco

Located south of the Medina, the historic region of Kasbah is as ancient as the city itself. Once serving as the fortified citadel, the area still houses the Royal Palace, the gardens of which are open to visitors.

Once the center of power in Marrakesh, political leaders and influential figures have been building mansions and palaces here for centuries. Many such mansions still remain , making this a great place to wander in search of traditional architecture.

Being such a hotspot of culture and history, there is plenty to see and do here. Saadian Tombs may sound like a macabre suggestion, but their beautiful historic architecture and decorative tiling are anything but morbid. The tombs were restored during the French Protectorate.

To the north of Kasbah, lie the ruined El Badii-Ksibat Nhass Palace , a 16th-century palace whose grounds and ornamental Orange grove are open for exploring by the public.  

In the northeast corner of Kasbah, you can find the last remaining gate of the original citadel, Bab Agnaou . This 12th-century structure is one of many wonderful attractions for history buffs visiting Marrakech.

As one of the oldest districts in Marrakesh, you will also find lots of old, traditional shops and cafes in this area. The Kasbah Café is a great place to try local Moroccan cusines, and enjoy the views of the medina and the Kasbah mosque.

It’s definitely worth wandering the backstreets of Kasbah if you are looking to pick up some traditional souvenirs without the crush of the Medina souks . You can check out handicraft, Moroccan baboosh, caftans along the Place Moulay Yazid.

To the east of Kasbah is the district of Mellah, the second oldest Jewish quarter in Morocco . In 2016 King Mohamed VI ordered the restoration of the area with precedence on honoring its Jewish history.

Stay in Kasbah if you love history, you want to soak in traditional architecture, you want to experience the culture of old Marrakech without the crowds of the Medina, you want to appreciate the interfaith history of the city.

Best places to stay in Kasbah for first-time visitors:

La Sultana Marrakech one of Marrakech’s most luxurious Riads with luxury outdoor swimming pool and a spa. The rooms and suites at Sultana has a Moorish décor and Moroccan furnishings, luxury marble bathroom. You can enjoy breakfast with mint tea and traditional pastries.

Riad Kasbah & Spa Located in the heart of Marrakech, close to Saadian Tombs, Jamaa el Fna square, Marrakech’s train station. It offers suites, outdoor pool, and an interior patio.

Riad Omara al Kasbah Set in within a short distance from the most popular attractions such as Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Djemaa El Fna, and Souk of the Medina. Saadian Tombs is 0.2 km away from this riad.

The Mellah of Marrakesh or the Jewish Quarter of Marrakech was formerly known as Hay Essalam. It is the area where the Jewish community resided. Mellah was protected by the Kasbah walls. You can enter through the Place des Ferblantiers, or the Place de Mellah to explore Mellah.

The Mellah was consist of :

• commercial streets or souk (spices, fabrics).

Mellah is located conveniently close to the medina and several tourist attractions. Some of the best things to do and see in the neighborhood are:

• Lazama Synagogue is one of the famous Marrakesh synagogues. It’s open every day open Sunday-Friday at 9 am.
• Tinsmiths’ Square  (Place des Ferblantiers)
• Spice Market: this Spice Souk is a famous place to look for Moroccan spices. It is also home to a few fabric shops where clothes are made by local craftsmen. 
• Miara Jewish Cemetery : Located within easy walking distance from the Bahia Palace, the 16th-century Miara Jewish Cemetery is the largest Jewish cemetery in Morocco.
• Mellah Marche (or Mellah Market) : Located to the south of the Medina, this Mellah market offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and the last kosher butcher in Marrakech.
• The Kissaria of jewellers and goldsmiths

In Morrocco, you can find Mellah at the city of Fez, the city of Meknes. Mellah offers many riads that have amenities such as hammams and pools. Some of the best places to stay in Mellah for first-time travelers are:

Riad La Vie Located 400 m from Bahia Palace, Riad La Vie offers a continental or an American breakfast. The property features an indoor pool, a garden and rooms with pool views.

Riad Bayti Set just a short walk from the famous Jamaâ El Fna Square, Al Bahia Palace, and El Badii Palace, this Moroccan riad features a rooftop terrace with sun beds, a plunge pool and a lounge with a TV and books. It offers a Moroccan breakfast, a hammam is available next to the riad.

Riad Noos Noos Located in a spice market nearby the Bahia Palace, the riad provides a the rooftop terrace, a cooking class. The guest rooms has traditionally tiled floor, air conditioning and an en suite bathroom.

Riad Alia Located close to famous attractions and museums such as Boucharouite Museum and The Orientalist Museum of Marrakech, this guest house has an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site snack bar and shared lounge.

4. Hivernage

South of Gueliz is the modern district of Hivernage. Lacking the tradition and cultural appeal of the older sectors, this area is best known for its nightlife. Bursting with upscale clubs, casinos, and cocktail bar s, this is one of the best corners of the city to go to when the sun goes down.

If you want to stay in luxury this may be a good place to start looking. The Four Seasons Marrakech and the Savoy Le Grand Marrakech are just two of the selection of 5-star hotels you can find in this neighborhood. 

You can even complete your high-end vacation with a trip to the western corner of Hivernage and you will find world-famous designer boutiques such as Louis Vuitton.

Whilst the option for luxury accommodation is here, that shouldn’t be a turn-off for anyone working with a smaller budget, as there are plenty of hotels in this region that cater to all wallet sizes.

Placed between the Marrakech Train Station and the Marrakesh Menara Airport , this is a great location for anyone going for a shorter trip. Make the most of the time you have in Marrakesh without having to worry about missing your train or plane.

Some of the places to mention in the neighborhood are  Marrakech Casino , Park Lalla Hasna and Cyber Park .

Stay in Hivernage if Vibrant nightlife is important to you; The cultural element of Marrakech is not a primary interest for you; Luxury hotels are your thing; You want to stay near transport links.

Best places to stay in Hivernage for first-timers:

• Luxury ($$$): Four Seasons Resort Marrakech Located close to Menara Garden, Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens. This 5-star hotel also offers a shuttle bus to Casablanca.
• Mid-range ($$): The Red House Conveniently located in the Hivernage district, close to Cyber Park, Koutoubia Mosque, and Marrakech Museum.
• Budget ($): Amani Hotel Suites & Spa offers stunning views of Mohammed VI Avenue and the Atlas, the Koutoubia. Located close to Royal Theatre, Royal Tennis Club de Marrakech, and Place du 16 Novembre.

Located to the west of Marrakech is the more modern district of Gueliz . It is home to the main avenues: Mohammed VI and Mohammed V . Popular with ex-pats who settle in the city, the area is a hub of western influence . Perhaps less adventurous than the older, more traditional districts of Marrakesh, the area is particularly convenient for families or picky eaters. From French and Italian to Thai, you’ll be sure to find a restaurant that everyone will be happy with. There’s even KFC!

If contemporary shopping is your thing, you can enjoy browsing in some familiar stores, such as Zara and Monsoon. This is also where you will find most of Marrakech’s more upmarket and fashionable boutiques , particularly along with Avenue Mohammed V , one of the main roads that bisect the city.

Don’t worry if you still want to fit some culture into your visit. There are a number of museums, art galleries, and theatres in this area to fill your time. Most notably the Matisse Art Gallery and the Theatre Royal , both of which have a constantly changing selection of exhibitions and performances.

The private museum MACMA Museum of Marrakech and Yves Saint Laurent Museum are also worth visiting. Other places of interest are the Arsat Moulay Abdeslam Cyber Park and Parc El Harti which are great places to relax!

Gueliz is also a good place to stay if you are going to be using public transport to get in and out of the city. Located right by the main Marrakech Train Station , you won’t have any trouble getting your luggage to and from your hotel. 

Common accommodations are affordable hotels and apartments , you can also find several riads in this neighborhood.

Stay in Gueliz if you are looking for the best place Marrakech for nightlife ; you want an area that caters heavily to an international populace, you want more contemporary or high-end shops, you want to stay near the train station, you’re traveling with fussy eaters.

Best places to stay in Marrakech in Gueliz for first-time visitors :

luxury ($$$): Radisson Blu Marrakech, Carré Eden   5-star hotel provides an outdoor pool and a restaurant, free wifi, fitness center. Set in a short drive from Marrakesh Train Station, Marrakech Plaza, and Marrakech-Menara Airport.

mid-range ($$): 2Ciels Boutique Hôtel This boutique hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. Within a short stroll from Conference Palace,  Carré Eden Shopping Center, and Marrakech Plaza.

budget ($): Hôtel Ibn Batouta Set in Gueliz offers air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi. Located close to Souk of the Medina, Majorelle Gardens, and Djemaa El Fna.

6. Palmeraie

Palmeraie literally translates as ‘palm grove’ and it’s an apt name for the region. An area of hundreds of thousands of palm trees, spanning 54 square miles, just north of the city of Marrakech.

Peppered with resorts, the area is suited more for people looking to kick back, relax, and appreciate the Moroccan climate . Generally, expect to pay for the luxury offered in this more exclusive area . Hotels near the golf course in the north of the region can start at $150 per night.

If the luxury travel lifestyle is not what you’re looking for, then perhaps you might benefit from the adventure tourism of the area. The distance further from the city center, closer to the desert, also makes it more convenient for those wanting to explore the surrounding land.

Companies such as Quad Marrakech offer guided quad bike tours out to surrounding villages. Alternatively, explore the area with camel rides in the desert on the back of a camel for a truly traditional tour.

However, if you mainly want to spend your time exploring the city of Marrakech itself, then this is probably not the area for you. Attractions nearby are the Musée de la Palmeraie Marrakech, the Museum Farid Belkahia, and the the Bab Doukkala.

Stay in Palmeraie if you want a relaxing break, you want to adventure more into the surrounding deserts, you aren’t particularly interested in sightseeing within the city, you don’t want to be near the city center.

Best places to stay in Palmeraie:

• Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech
• Mirage d’Atlas

The greatest tourist draws for this district is the historical Agdal botanical gardens , which lie directly to the east. Founded in the 12 th century, the gardens were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. 

Comprised of lemon, fig, pomegranate, orange, apricot, and olive trees, the gardens span 400 hectares of land. Set around a lake known as the Tank of Health , and dotted with pavilions, the gardens are free for visitors to enter. If you want to escape the thrum of the city and take a walk in the trees, you may want to consider visiting these gardens.

Being further out of the city, this area is also great for those who want to stay in a luxury hotel without the luxury price tag. The area between the Boulevard Mohammed VI and the Agdal gardens is densely populated with 4 and 5-star hotels, with most in the $50-$100 a night range. 

Common accommodations here are independently owned riads, with small pools and hot tubs in some riads.

Stay in Agdal if The historic Agdal gardens are at the top of your list of places to visit; You want to stay in a high-class hotel on a budget.

Best places to stay in Agdal:

• Kenzi Club Agdal Medina – All Inclusive 5 star-luxury club hotel is set in the center of Marrakech, Close to Circuit Moulay El Hassan, AL Mazar Mall, and Agdal Gardens. 
• Kenzi Menara Palace & Resort All Inclusive Set in a short drive from Jamaâ el Fna Square; Pacha nightclub and the Al Mazar shopping centre are in walking distance from this 5-star hotel.

Chrifia is a more low-key neighborhood in the south of Marrakech. Further out from the city center, this area is perfect for anyone who wants to avoid the mass of tourists closer to the Medina .

It’s also near to the Marrakesh Menara airport , keeping you close to transport links.

Being further out of the city also makes this area more of a draw for anyone looking to adventure into the surrounding deserts . If the natural beauty and ancient wonders of the land surrounding Marrakech interest you more than the city itself then this may be the place for you. 

Locally based companies like My Marrakech Excursions can help you to plan visits to surrounding valleys and villages.

This area is also great for anyone visiting with family, especially those with children . The large waterpark, Oasiria Water Park , will keep the whole family entertained for at least a day, or you could even pick one of several hotels surrounding the park and let your kids play the trip away. 

Alternatively, let the whole family burn off some energy at the nearby Laser Games Marrakech or test your wits against the Enigma Escape Game . Whilst the area may not be the most obvious place to stay for anyone wanting to really experience the culture of Marrakesh, there’s still plenty to do.

If you love golf you are in luck with this neighborhood. To the south of the area is the Argan golf resort , a huge golf course that could keep even the most enthusiastic golfer putting for days. There’s also the smaller Atlas Golf course which sits to the north and is more convenient for anyone who wants to stay closer to the city.

Stay in Chrifia if you are traveling with children, you don’t want to be in the city center, you want easier access to the region outside Marrakech, you want more adventurous or active entertainment, you enjoy golf.

Best places to stay in Chrifia:

• Selman Marrakech This 5-star hotel is located in a short drive to both the city centre and Marrakesh-Menara Airport. Surrounding by many golf courses such as Noria Golf Course, Atlas Golf Marrakech, and The Montgomerie Golf Course.
• Oasis lodge Located in Chrifia within a short distance from Menara Gardens, Koutoubia Mosque, and Marrakech-Menara,.

9. Kennaria

To the east of the Medina, between the Dabachi and Riad Zitun Jdid districts, is the neighborhood of Kennaria. Another of the older districts in Marrakech, this area maintains the traditional feel , but with less of the tourist hustle and bustle of the Medina.

Known for having a greater number of hammams , the region’s traditional public bathhouses, than any other area of Marrakech, this is a great place for anyone looking to relax and unwind. 

Located so close to the ancient city walls , this is another excellent spot for anyone looking to soak in the traditional vibe of Marrakech. 

Its streets are lined with traditional shops and beautiful riads. If you want to pick up some artisanal, handcrafted Moroccan wares to take home, then take an afternoon to browse the backstreets of Kennaria.

If you’re worried about finding food to suit everyone’s preferences, this area has a variety of cafés and restaurants. Particularly towards the western edge of Kennaria, you can find a plentiful mix of both traditional Middle Eastern and Morrocan cuisine and more familiar western fare.

Some of the cafes and restaurants to check out are Roti d’Or,  Kachkach café, Café Corner,  La Cantine Des Gazelles. If sweets treats are more what you’re looking for, the Derb Dabachi road is home to several bakeries and patisseries.

Stay in Kennaria if you want to relax, you want to experience a traditional hammam bathhouse, you want to shop for traditional handicrafts, you want to stay close to the old town without the press of other tourists.

Best places to stay near Kennaria:

Luxury ($$$): Riad Les Nuits de Marrakech a traditional Moroccan style Riad is just a few steps from Jamaâ El Fna; Menara Garden and Marrakech Airport are less than 20 minute’s driving by car. It is decorated in a traditional Moroccan style and features a swimming pool with a hot tub and a terrace with a seating area and views of the Medina. It has air-conditioned suites with a flat-screen TV, a seating area, private bathrooms with free toiletries, a shower, and a toilet.

Mid-range ($$): Riad L’Etoile D’Orient This Riad is located within walking distance from Jamaâ el Fna Square, El Koutoubia, and Royal Palace. You can relax in the hot tub on the rooftop terrace or drink mint tea in the traditional lounges and browse the free WiFi.

Budget ($): Riad Dabachi 3-star hotel is set in the Medina, within walking distance from Jamâa El Fna Square, and a short drive from Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque.  It offers free Wi-Fi access, a Moroccan-style décor and a patio with a plunge pool.

What is the best area to stay in Marrakech?

Medina is the best area to stay in Marrakech for tourist, especially for first-timer. If you stay in this historic neighborhood, you will be in the heart of the city, within walking distance to the most famous attractions including the famous 19th century Bahia Palace.

How many nights should you stay in Marrakech?

I recommend spend at least three days in this fourth-largest city in Morocco. This time will allow you to enjoy the biggest highlights of the city, and to fully enjoy the experience.

How long you want to stay in Marrakech depends on what exactly you are hoping to get from your trip. If you love history and culture, you could easily spend at least a week here, getting lost in the backstreets of Medina and exploring the old palaces of Kasbah. 

🎬 Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Marrakech in this video:

• Where to Stay in Casablanca
• Where to Stay in Fes
•   Where to Stay in Rabat

Marrakech has kept much of its culture and tradition intact despite its recent expansion. A city with a long history that you can experience in the modern-day, Marrakech is a cultural gem of the Kingdom of Morocco .

With something to offer all tastes and priorities, Marrakech is a dream destination for anyone who wants to feel like they’re walking in history. Whether that be walking to the souks, the shops, or the clubs, is up to you.

Marrakesh is the best base to explore surrounding areas such as Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, and the Atlantic Coast.

In conclusion, Medina, Kasbah, Gueliz, Hivernage, Chrifia, Agdal, Palmeraie, and Kennaria are the best places to stay in Marrakech for tourists and first-time travelers.

Overall, Medina is the best area to stay in Marrakech for first timers due to its close proximity to top attractions. If you stay here, you will be located in the middle of everything, within walking to major sighs, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shosp.

Now as you know the where to stay in Marrakech to book your accommodations, all you need to do is choose the hotel that suits your budget and ready to go!

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

4 thoughts on “Where to Stay in Marrakech First Time: 9 Best Areas”

This is soo helpful, thank you so much!

Great to hear the guide on best areas to stay in Marrakech useful! Thanks for reading!

Would recommend splitting up a 7 day stay between different places/roads? Are there places to securely store you luggage in between check-in times?

Thanks! Great article!

Hi, Thank you for nice comment! If you have 7 days in Marrakech, I recommend to stay in Marrakech Medina for few nights, couple of nights at Atlas Mountain area or Essaouira beach side, then back to Marrakech. From Medina, there are side trips to nearby Atlas mountains such as Asni, Tin Mal mosque, Tizi-n-Test, Telouet, Ait Ben Haddou, and Ouarzazate. Most riads will actually store your luggage for free if your stay there, or have look at paid secure luggage storage sevice. Cheers!

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Lucy's Trip Of A Lifetime In Marrakech!

If you’d told me a year ago I’d be spending eight days on a guided trip to Marrakech, hosted by stylists Jono Fleming and Julia Green , I simply wouldn’t have believed you.

Why? Well, firstly, I feel a little guilty holidaying without my family — I don’t usually do things that feel overly self-indulgent. And whilst I’ve always been intrigued by Morocco, I guess I imagined it might be a slightly difficult holiday destination, that would require a lot of pre-planning to ensure a seamless and enjoyable trip.

But that’s exactly where Julia and Jono come in! With a carefully crafted itinerary designed for maximum visual inspiration, eyeball-exploding beauty and yes — shopping — this really is the ultimate trip for design lovers!

So, earlier this month I did it! I swallowed my Mum-guilt and joined this trip of a lifetime. Here are my top highlights!

Lucy Feagins + Jono Fleming

Riad Jardin Secret . Photo – Lucy Feagins.

Hanging with the locals at Le Riad Yasmine . Photo – Jono Fleming.

THAT pool at Le Riad Yasmine! Photo – Lucy Feagins.

My room at Rosemary Marrakech – so beautiful! Photo – Lucy Feagins.

Rosemary Marrakech.

Rosemary Marrakech Photo – Lucy Feagins.

Without a doubt, the highlight of this trip for me was the Riads.

The old part of Marrakech is filled with these beautifully appointed small guest-houses, which usually have no more than around 10-12 guest rooms, each overlooking a lush central courtyard. I stayed in three different Riads on this trip, and I honesty can’t choose a favourite — each was so special and visually stunning in its own way!

Rosemary Marrakech is a relatively new boutique guest house, and is the creation of cult Belgian/Moroccan lifestyle brand Lrnce . It captures the striking aesthetic of the Lrnce brand so perfectly — balancing both traditional and contemporary Moroccan craftsmanship, with stunning handcrafted Lrnce artwork, tiling, textiles, ceramics and furniture everywhere you look. This is a smaller Riad so it wasn’t officially part of the ‘Style Morocco’ tour (as it’s too small to accomodate more than 12 people), but I stayed here for two nights before the group tour started, and I’m so glad I did!

Le Riad Yasmine was another stunning place to stay, and a magical oasis to retreat to after long day of sight seeing all over Marrakech. The centrepiece here is the jewel-toned pool in the central courtyard — so very instagrammable! The rooftop was also a stunning spot for morning breakfasts and sunset dinners, looking out over the rooftops of the old city.

Finally, we spent one magical night at Riad Jardin Secret (Secret Garden Riad) and it was also a beauty! With stunning ornate mosaics and textured detailing on every surface, deep colour and pattern everywhere, and a lush garden in the central courtyard, this Riad had more of an old world aesthetic.

Julia Green rug shopping in the souks.  Photo – Lucy Feagins.

The souks. Photo – Lucy Feagins.

Moroccan tagines for sales in the souk. Photo – Lucy Feagins.

A pottery where tagines and other ceramics are made locally. Photo – Jono Fleming.

Lrnce Studio shop. Photo – Lucy Feagins.

Handglazed ceramics in the Lrnce Studio shop. Photo – Lucy Feagins.

Shopping was a key theme of this trip – and I must say, it was nice to be travelling with a group of women who were all equally keen to indulge!

We spent a good few days exploring the souks — the local markets and smaller shops that are dotted all over the cobbled laneways of the old town. Here, Moroccan craftsmanship is on full show, from handmade textiles and rugs, to handwoven baskets, lighting, ceramics, jewellery, leatherwork and so much more! This is where Jono and Julia bring a wealth of knowledge, having each visited Marrakech countless times, they know where all the treasures are to be found. And, if you go a little overboard, no worries, their local guide, Moh, can organise for anything that won’t fit in your suitcase to be shipped home for you.

In addition to exploring traditional Moroccan handcrafts, Jono and Julia took us to some of their favourite contemporary concept stores too. A highlight was the Lrnce Studio shop, which was especially inspiring after staying at Rosemary Marrakech .

The Islamic garden at The Jardin Secret Marrakech.

The Islamic garden at The Jardin Secret Marrakech .

The exotic garden at The Jardin Secret Marrakech .

The garden surrounding the exterior of Musee Yves Saint Laurent  .

Our hosts with the most! Julia and Jono outside Musee Yves Saint Laurent.

The gardens caught me by surprise on this trip! I had no idea that these spectacular outdoor spaces would be a key feature of the trip, or indeed, how beautiful the gardens of Morocco would be.

One of the most memorable gardens we visited was The Jardin Secret Marrakech (no connection to the riad of the same name!). Housed within a palace-like complex that was built more than four hundred years ago, Le Jardin Secret sits behind tall walls in the centre of the old town, and as the name suggests, it feels like a secret oasis amongst the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.

The gardens are divided into an exotic garden and an Islamic garden. The exotic garden has a jungle like feel, and is filled with plants and trees from all over the world, including incredible tall cactuses and spiky trees that feel almost prehistoric!

The Islamic garden is more spacious and structured, full of textural, tall grass-like plantings, lilac flowers and shady trees. This garden is said to be a metaphor for heaven — a sacred place, laid out according to rigid geometrical rules.

We also visited the Jardin Majorelle , a one-hectare botanical garden with vibrant blue pathways and brightly coloured architectural details, originally created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle over almost forty years, starting in 1923.

In 1980, famed fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent (who had first arrived in Morocco in 1966) purchased the Jardin Majorelle, saving it from redevelopment. Alongside his partner Pierre Bergé, Yves Saint Laurent decided to live here, and to maintain the stunning gardens.

Today, the Jardin Majorelle sits adjacent to the Musee Yves Saint Laurent — as part of the ‘Style Morocco’ tour, you visit both the YSL museum and the Majorelle gardens in the same day.

We also visited the Agafay desert for an overnight side trip, which was surreal to say the least!

Just over an hour from Central Marrakech, we stayed at Agafay Desert Luxury Camp , where tent-like hotel rooms are clustered around a stunning infinity pool, overlooking the desert landscape. At sunset, the whole landscape glowed orange — the most incredible golden hour!

We ended our trip with three nights at Beldi — a serene country club and hotel complex, set on 14 hectares of jaw-droppingly beautiful  gardens that feel like a green oasis, just 10 minutes from central Marrakech.

Beldi is set out like a Moroccan village, with guest suites grouped around shaded courtyards, linked by outdoor pathways and surrounded by amazing gardens. The complex also has several stunning swimming pools and a spa, plus a very cute selection of shops, and a couple of restaurants. Here, our whole tour group indulged in a massage and ‘hammam’ — a traditional moroccan steam room/scrub down experience. After the sensory overload of staying within the bustling old town centre, finishing the trip at Beldi was the perfect way to wind down!

Jono and Julia were the ultimate hosts on this incredible adventure, and I honestly can’t imagine a more perfectly curated trip.

Their next ‘ Style Morocco ‘ trip is slated for April 22nd to 29th 2025 — and tickets have been released just this week! Jump on it here .

Lucy joined the Style Morocco May 2024 tour courtesy of Julia and Jono.

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