Get Lost in the Historic Medina
Wandering the labyrinthine streets of the Marrakech Medina is the quintessential way to begin your adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a living museum of Moroccan culture, filled with local artisans, ancient architecture, and bustling markets.
Top highlights: Explore the souks of Semmarine, El Kebir, and Souk Ableuh.
Travel tip: Hire a local guide on your first day to understand the layout and history—it’ll make self-exploration easier later.
Marvel at the Koutoubia Mosque
No Marrakech itinerary is complete without a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque, the city's most iconic landmark. Its 77-meter tall minaret dominates the skyline and serves as a compass for navigating the medina.
Fun fact: Non-Muslims can't enter, but admiring the stunning exterior and the surrounding gardens is a peaceful experience.
Experience the Magic of Jemaa el-Fnaa at Night
By day, Jemaa el-Fnaa is a lively square filled with orange juice stalls and snake charmers. But by night, it transforms into an open-air theater with storytellers, musicians, and street food vendors grilling up fragrant Moroccan delicacies.
Bucket list moment: Enjoy a sunset tea from a rooftop café overlooking the square, then descend into the crowd for dinner and live performances.
Step into Royal History at Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture, with intricate mosaics, tranquil courtyards, and lush gardens. Built in the 19th century, it reflects the grandeur of Morocco's royal past.
Photo tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and capture the details of the carved wooden ceilings and zellige tilework.
Admire the Colors of Jardin Majorelle
One of Marrakech’s most famous sites, the Majorelle Garden is a botanical oasis once owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent. The bold Majorelle blue villa, exotic plants, and serene water features offer a refreshing escape from the city's intensity.
Combo tip: Visit the Berber Museum inside the garden and head to the YSL Museum next door for a stylish cultural detour.
Take a Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class
Eating tagine is one thing, but learning how to cook it with a local chef is a hands-on cultural experience you won’t forget. Many riads and cooking schools offer half-day or full-day culinary workshops.
Pro tip: Choose a class that includes a visit to the local market (souk) to learn about spices, produce, and traditional techniques.
Relax in a Traditional Hammam
A Moroccan hammam is part spa, part purification ritual. You’ll be steamed, scrubbed, and massaged until you feel completely renewed. Options range from local public bathhouses to high-end spas.
Luxury experience: Try Les Bains de Marrakech or La Mamounia Spa for an upscale version.
Authentic option: Visit Hammam Mouassine or Hammam Dar el-Bacha for a local feel.
Stay in a Traditional Moroccan Riad
There’s no better way to soak in the essence of Marrakech than by staying in a traditional riad—a restored historic home centered around a tranquil courtyard. These hidden gems offer authentic Moroccan architecture, intimate hospitality, and peaceful escapes from the bustling medina.
Top Riads: Riad Kniza, Riad Yasmine, Riad BE Marrakech, and La Sultana Marrakech.
Pro tip: Choose a riad inside the medina for easy walking access to all the main attractions.
Explore the Saadian Tombs
Rediscovered in 1917, the Saadian Tombs date back to the 1500s and offer a glimpse into Morocco’s glorious past. Intricate tilework, arabesque carvings, and a peaceful garden setting make it one of Marrakech’s most photogenic historic sites.
Highlight: The Chamber of the Twelve Pillars, where Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour and his family rest.
Visit the El Badi Palace Ruins
Once a dazzling palace made of gold and marble, El Badi is now an atmospheric ruin filled with storks, sunken gardens, and panoramic rooftop views. It’s a haunting reminder of the grandeur of the Saadian dynasty.
Best time to go: Early morning for cool weather and fewer crowds.
Discover the Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
Marrakech’s Mellah was once home to a vibrant Jewish community. Today, it offers a quieter contrast to the medina, with wide streets, historic synagogues, and unique markets.
Don’t miss: Lazama Synagogue and the nearby Mellah Spice Market—perfect for picking up saffron, cumin, and ras el hanout.
Sip Mint Tea on a Rooftop Terrace
A quintessential Moroccan moment is sipping sweet mint tea on a rooftop terrace while the call to prayer echoes across the city. Many cafés and riads offer stunning views of the Atlas Mountains, medina rooftops, or Jemaa el-Fnaa.
Best spots: Café de France, Atay Café, and Nomad Restaurant.
Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
If you’re staying in Marrakech for more than a couple of days, a day trip to the Atlas Mountains is a must. Just an hour or two from the city, you’ll find Berber villages, lush valleys, and scenic hiking routes.
Popular destinations: Ourika Valley, Imlil, and the Kik Plateau.
Local tip: Visit on a Monday or Thursday for the traditional souk days in the villages.
Try Street Food at the Night Market
Every evening, Jemaa el-Fnaa turns into a giant open-air food court. Sample classic Moroccan dishes like harira soup, grilled lamb skewers, fried fish, snail broth, and b’stilla.
Tip: Stall numbers change often—follow the locals or ask your riad for the best recommendations.
Shop for Unique Handicrafts in the Souks
Marrakech’s souks are a treasure trove of handmade goods, from leather bags and poufs to lanterns, rugs, ceramics, and argan oil products
Best souks for specific items
Souk Semmarine: General crafts and souvenirs
Souk Haddadine: Metalwork and lamps
Souk Chouari: Woodwork
Souk Smata: Slippers and leather goods
Haggling tip: Negotiation is part of the experience. Start at half the price offered and meet in the middle with a smile.
