Why Marrakech in December is a Dreamy Winter Escape
As winter sweeps across Europe, Marrakech remains a warm and vibrant sanctuary. December in the Red City offers a unique blend of pleasant weather, festive spirit, and rich cultural experiences. The days are sunlit and mild, making it ideal for sightseeing, while the evenings turn cool and crisp—perfect for sipping mint tea under the stars. For travelers looking to escape the gloom of winter or celebrate the holidays somewhere exotic, Marrakech delivers charm, color, and authenticity in abundance.
This festive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Marrakech in December—from top attractions and seasonal events to weather tips, cultural highlights, and holiday shopping spots. Whether you're planning a Christmas getaway or a quiet year-end retreat, this post will help you make the most of every moment.
What’s the Weather Like in Marrakech in December?
December in Marrakech brings cool mornings and evenings with sunny, comfortable afternoons. Average daytime temperatures hover around 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F), while nighttime lows can drop to 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F). Rain is rare but possible, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket and an umbrella just in case.
What to Pack
Warm layers for the evenings
Long-sleeved shirts and jeans or trousers for daytime
A good walking pair of shoes for souks and cobbled streets
A scarf for sun and wind protection
A swimsuit for hammams or heated hotel pools
Top Things to Do in Marrakech in December
1. Wander the Souks for Holiday Shopping
December is the perfect time to explore Marrakech’s labyrinthine souks, where you can shop for unique gifts like handwoven rugs, leather bags, argan oil, lanterns, ceramics, and spices. Popular spots include Souk Semmarine, Rahba Kedima, and Souk El Attarine.
2. Visit Majorelle Garden
Escape the busy medina and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Majorelle Garden. The vivid blues and lush greenery are even more striking against December’s golden sunlight.
3. Discover Bahia Palace & El Badi Palace
Explore the grandeur of Moroccan architecture with a visit to Bahia Palace, full of colorful mosaics and tranquil courtyards, and El Badi Palace, an evocative ruin that tells tales of past dynasties.
4. Experience a Traditional Hammam
There’s nothing like warming up in a Moroccan hammam on a cool December day. Choose between luxury options like La Mamounia Spa and Royal Mansour, or go traditional with Hammam de la Rose or Hammam Mouassine.
5. Rooftop Dining with City Views
As the sun sets early, take advantage of Marrakech’s many rooftop restaurants. Cozy up with a tagine and enjoy views over the medina and distant Atlas Mountains. Great spots include Nomad, Le Jardin, and El Fenn Rooftop.
6. Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
Just a short drive from the city, the Atlas Mountains offer snow-capped peaks and charming Berber villages. Visit Imlil or Ourika Valley for hiking, tea with locals, or simply soaking up the mountain air.
Holiday Festivities & Events
Christmas in Marrakech
While Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, Marrakech caters to international travelers during Christmas with festive decor in hotels and restaurants. Many luxury riads and resorts host special dinners on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with Moroccan twists on holiday favorites.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
New Year’s Eve in Marrakech is a stylish affair. From rooftop dinners and live music at spots like Palais Jad Mahal and Comptoir Darna to serene riad dinners and fireworks at luxury hotels, there are plenty of ways to ring in the new year.
Cultural Performances
Venues like Dar Cherifa and Institut Français de Marrakech often host December concerts, art exhibits, and poetry readings—offering warm, cultural escapes from the cooler evenings.
Where to Stay in December
Luxury: Royal Mansour
Perfect for a holiday splurge, this palatial hotel offers private riads, world-class dining, and a luxurious hammam experience.
Mid-Range: Riad Kniza
An elegant, authentic riad with warm hospitality and a central location.
Budget: Rodamon Riad Hostel
Social, stylish, and budget-friendly—ideal for young travelers or those seeking a festive atmosphere.
Food & Drink: Seasonal Flavors in December
Warm up with these Moroccan dishes that feel especially comforting in December:
Lamb tagine with prunes and almonds
Harira soup with dates and flatbread
Couscous with root vegetables
Mint tea with cinnamon and honey
Don’t miss seasonal fruits like oranges, pomegranates, and dates, which appear in abundance in December.
Travel Tips for December
Layer up: Temperatures fluctuate throughout the day
Make reservations early: December is peak season for international travelers
Carry cash: Many souks and local eateries don’t accept cards
Learn basic Arabic or French: Polite greetings go a long way
Stay central: Being in or near the Medina makes exploring on foot easy
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Marrakech in December
Day One: Dive Into the Heart of the Medina
Morning: Begin your December adventure with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at your riad. Head to Jemaa el-Fnaa, where street performers, musicians, and snake charmers welcome you into the rhythm of the city. Visit Souk Semmarine to browse handcrafted goods.
Midday: Stop for lunch at Café des Épices, known for its spice-laden tagines and rooftop views.
Afternoon: Explore Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, two of the most breathtaking historical sites in Marrakech.
Evening: Wind down with a rooftop dinner at Nomad. Try the lamb tagine while watching the sunset over the medina’s rooftops.
Day Two: Gardens, Art, and Relaxation
Morning: Start with a visit to the iconic Majorelle Garden and the Berber Museum, then stroll to Yves Saint Laurent Museum for fashion and art inspiration.
Midday: Enjoy lunch at Le Jardin, nestled in a leafy courtyard with cool vibes and Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion dishes.
Afternoon: Book a luxurious hammam and massage session at Royal Mansour or Les Bains de Marrakech—perfect for a December afternoon.
Evening: Attend a traditional music performance at Dar Cherifa or enjoy a live Gnawa show at Kechmara restaurant.
Day Three: Atlas Mountains & Sunset Farewell
Morning: Take a day trip to Ourika Valley or Imlil in the Atlas Mountains. In December, the views are breathtaking with snow-dusted peaks and crisp air
Midday: Enjoy a Berber lunch with a local family or eat in a riverside restaurant like Café Tafarnout.
Evening: Return to Marrakech and treat yourself to a special dinner at La Maison Arabe or Comptoir Darna for a festive meal with live belly dancing and music.
Romantic Things to Do in Marrakech in December
Whether you're traveling for a honeymoon, anniversary, or just a cozy winter escape, Marrakech offers romance with every step.
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
As the city lights flicker to life, snuggle up and take a caleche ride through the medina and down the illuminated streets of Gueliz. It’s a fairytale moment straight out of Arabian Nights.
Dine in a Candlelit Riad
December evenings are perfect for slow dinners in intimate riads. Try Riad Kniza or La Sultana, where you can dine by candlelight surrounded by flickering lanterns and Andalusian music.
Sunset Views from the Koutoubia Gardens
Bring a thermos of mint tea, sit on a bench in the Koutoubia Gardens, and watch the minaret turn gold as the sun sets—simple, sweet, and unforgettable.
Couples' Spa Experiences
Share a hammam or massage in a spa like Heritage Spa or the La Mamounia Spa. Some offer couples' treatments in private suites with flower petals and scented oils.
Family-Friendly Activities in Marrakech in December
If you're visiting Marrakech with kids or teens, December is a great time for outdoor adventures, learning experiences, and family fun.
Explore Le Jardin Secret
This historical garden in the heart of the medina offers wide paths, towers, and fountains—perfect for kids to explore while parents enjoy the peace and beauty.
Camel Rides and Desert Experiences
Just outside the city in Palmeraie, you can book a short camel ride or even a mini desert tour for a day. Many packages include traditional dress-up, mint tea, and a meal.
Interactive Museums
Take kids to the Maison de la Photographie for a look into Moroccan culture, or to Musee Tiskiwin, which features artifacts from Saharan trade routes.
Cooking Class for Families
Learn to cook couscous and pastries together with a Moroccan cooking workshop at Souk Cuisine or Amal Women’s Center. Fun, delicious, and culturally rich.
Ride the Hot Air Balloon
For families with older children, a hot air balloon ride over Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains is a magical and safe adventure to remember.
Marrakech in December is Pure Magic
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of sun-kissed afternoons, romantic rooftop dinners, or the allure of exotic Christmas shopping, Marrakech in December delivers an unforgettable holiday experience. With its rich traditions, welcoming locals, and captivating sights, the city feels festive in a uniquely Moroccan way. Skip the snow this year and head to the ochre city for a winter break that glows with warmth, spice, and soul.
