Top attractions in Marrakech

Medinas and Bazaars

Marrakech’s heart beats within the lively Medina, the oldest walled section of the city. Dive into this vibrant area for a day, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of its bustling souks and squares.

Explore the Medina’s Maze

The Medina’s charm lies in its winding alleys that feel like a journey through time. Ditch your map and let yourself get lost in the excitement, weaving between donkeys and carts.

Take in the colourful walls and buildings, breathe in the scents of local cuisine and spices, and chat with friendly residents. For a tasty adventure, consider joining a night-time food tour to sample various flavours and local treats while exploring the markets.

The most enchanting experience is hearing the call to prayer echoing through the narrow streets from nearby mosques. For a bird’s-eye view, head to one of the many rooftop cafes and soak in the panoramic sights and sounds.

Jemaa El Fnaa Square

At the Medina’s core is the world-renowned Jemaa el Fnaa square. Walking through this area is truly unforgettable! Feel the warmth radiating from the stone ground as you navigate past snake charmers, performers, and food stalls offering fresh juices.

As night falls, the square comes alive with music, featuring flutists, dancers, and artists showcasing their skills under the twinkling lights of the stalls. This incredible display of Moroccan culture is a must-see!

Tip: Be aware of pickpockets in this area and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Discover the Souks

While the square is Marrakech’s heart, the souks are its soul. Just off the main square, you’ll find an incredible maze of markets. It’s easy to lose your way in these covered bazaars and the network of tiny, similar-looking streets.

Embrace the experience and enjoy the stunning colours of textiles, the magical scents of vibrant spice mounds, the top-notch leather goods, and the sparkling lights reflecting off lanterns and colourful glassware. Don’t miss the main souk, ‘Souk Semmarine’, located just off Jemaa el Fnaa. A bit further, you’ll find ‘Souk Place des Epices’, the traditional spice market.

Tip: Get ready to haggle! It’s a big part of the culture, so sellers always expect some back-and-forth on prices. Keep in mind that some shop owners can be pushy with tourists in the souks. Stay firm but polite when saying no, then move on quickly. If you’re worried about getting lost, consider hiring a trusted guide to show you around.

Discover Marrakech’s Best Eats and Drinks

Marrakech offers a great mix of traditional and fusion spots serving up yummy tagines and couscous. We really loved Cafe Atay. Cafe Clock is another good choice for fusion food!

Moroccan buildings all have flat roofs, perfect for rooftop bars. Head up to a cafe overlooking Jemaa el Fnaa for a tasty mint tea, or check out the Maison de la Photographie museum – it has the highest rooftop in the medina with amazing views!

Note: Since Marrakech is an Islamic city, you can’t drink alcohol outside of bars. Many places don’t serve it at all, so look up spots that do beforehand, or enjoy your trip alcohol-free!

Amazing Architecture

Hop between beautiful buildings to take it all in. You’ll see classic Moroccan designs with arches and blue tiles, plus more modern artistic buildings and museums.

Jardin Majorelle

This bright blue house is one of Marrakech’s biggest attractions and a must-see! The stunning home and gardens were first created by Jacques Majorelle, who invented this deep blue shade called ‘Majorelle blue’. Later, Yves St Laurent bought and fixed up the house and gardens. It feels like a tropical paradise, with green plants from all over looking gorgeous against the blue and yellow house.

Entrance Fee: Tickets are 70 Dhs (about 7 USD) for the garden. The museum costs 30 Dhs (about 3 USD) extra. It’s open 8AM – 5:30PM daily, and until 6PM in summer. Go early to beat crowds and get great photos. You can also book tickets or tours ahead of time.

Bahia Palace

This stunning palace, boasting 150 rooms, was constructed in the 19th century by the sultan’s grand vizier, who dreamed of creating the world’s most magnificent palace. Explore the classic Moroccan design of the courtyards, adorned with orange trees and fountains, and marvel at the intricate stained glass windows and tilework.

The centre piece of the palace complex is the enormous, opulent marble courtyard, which is truly awe-inspiring. Don’t pass up the chance to delve into the captivating history of the grand vizier, his family, and his numerous wives.

Note: While only part of the palace is open to visitors, it’s definitely worth seeing, especially since it’s just a 20-minute walk from Jemaa el Fnaa square. Entry costs 70 Dhs (7 USD), and it’s open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains

Take a break from Marrakech and venture out to the breath-taking Atlas Mountains, just an hour or two drive away. Book a tour that includes round-trip transportation and guides you through picturesque valleys and traditional Berber villages. It’s a perfect way to experience Morocco’s natural beauty and enjoy the cooler mountain climate.

Tip: Visiting in winter? Try skiing in the Atlas Mountains! If you’re coming in summer, remember that temperatures drop significantly in the evening, so pack an extra layer.

Ait Benhaddou

Perched in the Atlas Mountains south of Marrakech, Ait Benhaddou looks like it’s straight out of a movie set. This ancient village, with its earthen, sandy buildings, dates back centuries. As a well-preserved UNESCO site, it offers visitors a glimpse into a simpler way of life. Spend time wandering through the village, admiring the surrounding mountains, and enjoy a mint tea as the sun sets over the red clay landscape. Experience Ait Benhaddou and explore the nearby Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate on a day tour.

Sahara Desert Tour

No trip to Morocco is complete without experiencing the magic of the Sahara Desert. While it’s a bit of a journey from Marrakech, the breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences make it well worth the effort. Ride a camel across golden sand dunes, spend a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp, and witness some of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever see. Many tour operators offer multi-day trips from Marrakech, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the desert’s beauty and tranquility.

A Sahara Desert adventure is a must for any Marrakech trip. Explore rolling dunes by day via jeep or on foot. At night, enjoy unparalleled stargazing by a crackling campfire. The 8-hour drive to the Sahara includes stops at villages and natural wonders. For the full experience, consider booking a 2-3 day tour. This allows you to soak in the desert’s magic, from camel rides to sleeping under the stars in a Berber camp.