Marrakech is loud, colourful and unforgettable. In one afternoon you can walk from a quiet palace garden into the busiest square in Africa, get lost in the souks and end the day on a rooftop with a view of the Atlas Mountains. Our team is based in Marrakech, so here are the best things to do in Marrakech, with honest local tips to enjoy the Red City without stress.
1. Jemaa el-Fna Square
The heart of Marrakech. In the morning it is a wide open square with orange juice stalls; at sunset it becomes a huge open-air show with food stalls, musicians, storytellers and smoke from the grills. Watch it from a café terrace first, then walk in. Tip: photos of performers and animal handlers usually come with a request for a tip, so ask first or keep your camera down.
2. The Souks of the Medina
North of the square, a maze of covered alleys hides hundreds of small shops: leather, lanterns, spices, carpets, ceramics and silver. Each area has its own craft, like the dyers’ souk or the blacksmiths. Getting a little lost is part of the fun, but a local guide helps you find the real workshops and avoid the pushy sellers.
3. Koutoubia Mosque
The 12th-century minaret of the Koutoubia is the symbol of Marrakech and can be seen from almost everywhere in the city. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but the gardens around it are lovely in the late afternoon.
4. Bahia Palace
Built in the 19th century, the Bahia Palace is a beautiful example of Moroccan craftsmanship: painted cedar ceilings, zellige tiles, carved stucco and quiet courtyards with orange trees. Go early in the morning to enjoy it before the groups arrive.
5. Ben Youssef Madrasa
This former Koranic school was one of the largest in North Africa. Its central courtyard, with a long pool and walls covered in carved wood and plaster, is one of the most photographed places in the city.
6. Jardin Majorelle
A garden of cactus, bamboo and palms around a villa painted in an intense “Majorelle blue”. It was later owned by Yves Saint Laurent, and the YSL Museum is right next door. Book your tickets online in advance, as queues can be long.
7. A Traditional Hammam
After a day in the medina, nothing is better than a hammam: steam, black soap and a scrub with a kessa glove. You can choose a simple local hammam for the authentic experience, or a spa hammam in a riad for more comfort.
Day Trips From Marrakech
- Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley: Berber villages, waterfalls and lunch by the river.
- Agafay Desert: a stony desert less than an hour from the city, great for sunset dinners.
- Essaouira: a relaxed blue-and-white town on the Atlantic coast.
- The real Sahara: the dunes of Merzouga are too far for a day trip. You need at least 3 days, like our 3 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech. Read how many days you need for the desert.
Local Tips for Marrakech
- Say no politely: if someone offers to show you the way or says a street is closed, a smile and “la, shukran” (no, thank you) is enough.
- Bargaining is normal in the souks. Take your time, smile, and only start if you really want to buy.
- Dress comfortably and modestly: covering shoulders and knees is appreciated in the medina.
- Cash is useful: many small shops and taxis don’t take cards.
- Stay in a riad inside or near the medina for the real Marrakech atmosphere.
Wondering about safety? Read our honest answers in Is Morocco safe for tourists?.
How Many Days in Marrakech?
Two full days are enough to see the main sights at a relaxed pace. With three days, you can add a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. Many travelers combine Marrakech with the Sahara: our 8 Days Morocco Desert Tour From Marrakech ends with a guided tour of the city, and you can see all our tours from Marrakech.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Marrakech?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant. Summer is very hot. See our month by month guide.
Do I need a guide in Marrakech?
Not for the main square, but a licensed local guide for the medina and the monuments makes the visit easier, richer in stories and free of hassle.
Is Marrakech good for families?
Yes. Children love the gardens, the square in the evening, the camel rides in the palm grove and the day trips to the mountains.
Ready for your Moroccan adventure?
Start in Marrakech and continue to the Sahara with your own driver-guide. Tell us your dates and we will plan your private tour.
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