Entering the ancient city walls of the Marrakech Medina feels like stepping back in time. Or perhaps, stepping into a movie set of a Hollywood epic set in an exotic, far away land. It's a heady, intoxicating experience. Incense and oud wafting from the souks, the calls of stall sellers trying to lure you in, donkeys braying and scooters revving.
It's also a fascinating blend of ancient history and tradition, paired with the modernity of a bustling cosmopolitan city. Immerse yourself in history at a 16th century palace by day, and party with revellers on a rooftop overlooking the city by night.
There are countless sights in Marrakech, but narrowing them down, particularly if you're on a tight schedule, can be a challenge. However, there are a number of can't-miss experience, that make up a quintessential Marrakech adventure. And there are also a number of hidden gems that need to be added to your itinerary.
I've been to Marrakech three times now, so would like to think I've started to know my way round the city - at least a little! As such, I've put together this Marrakech travel guide. It features some of my top tips and favourite sights, encapsulated in the very best things to do in Marrakech. I hope this provides a solid starting point for planning your own Marrakech trip - happy adventuring!
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Marrakech 101
How many days in Marrakech
You could comfortably see the main sights of Marrakech in 2-3 days (3/4 nights). However, it can be quite an intense place, so if you want to slow down, experience the comfort of the riads, and possibly get out to the desert for a day trip, I'd recommend 4-5 full days.
How to get around Marrakech
The bulk of the sights in Marrakech are based within the Medina, which is largely walkable. You'll likely get a taxi to and from the airport, and if you're visiting any sights or restaurants outside the Old Town. These are readily available, and usually charge 20-50 dirham (100 for the airport). Though in theory they're metered, more often than not they'll try to set a fee. Make sure you know what you're paying (or the metre is on) in advance of your trip.
What to wear in Marrakech
Morocco is a conservative country, so I'd recommend covering your knees and shoulders. For women, flowy, loose midi and maxi dresses are ideal. You may need to be more covered up when entering religious buildings, so pack a shawl. For men, it's less strict - but keep in mind some restaurants may have dress codes, e.g. no flip flops. Read my guide on what to wear in Morocco for more tips.
The Best Things to do in Marrakech
01. Shop the Souks
Marrakech is a shopper's paradise. The centre of the Medina is a giant maze of souks, aka market stalls. These stalls are overflowing with trinkets and treasures aplenty, from local handicrafts and art, to dubious designer knockoffs - and everything in-between. Some of the best products to pick up are homeware such as crockery and soft furnishings, spices, and argan oil.
Haggling is the norm in the souks, so don't be put off if the initial price quoted is higher than you want to pay. I usually aim for around half to three quarters of what they quote. My top tip is to make to walk away, and the sellers will usually call you back with a lower price!
02. Medersa Ben Youssef
One of the most awe-inspiring things to do in Marrakech is the Medersa Ben Youssef, a 14th century religious school and striking example of Islamic architecture. This historic Quranic school once house students studying Islamic law and theology. Though no longer an active school, the Medersa is open daily to visitors from 9am to 7pm. Entrance is 50 dirham for foreign tourists, and 20 for Moroccans.
I recommend avoiding peak times - we arrived at opening and enjoyed the Medersa with very few crowds for the duration of our visit. Cameras are allowed, however tripods and gimbals are not. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and a must if you want to discover the intricate craftsmanship and ornate zellige tilework that Morocco is known for.
03. Jardin Majorelle
One of the most iconic things to do in Marrakech is a trip to Jardin Majorelle, the former home and gardens of legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent. The gardens were designed in the 1920s by French artist Jean Majorelle, and purchased by Saint Laurent in the 1980s to preserve the unique space. Rows of cacti and tropical plants converge around the striking electric blue Cubist villa, which houses the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts. The complex also hosts the YSL Museum.
The garden is open from 8:30am to 6pm daily. The Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts is open from 8am to 5:30pm, and the YSL museum is open from 10am to 6pm. You have to book tickets and a timed entry slot in advance via the website - standard tickets for the garden alone are 170 dirham. It's a little out of the main Medina, so you may need to take a cab, or be prepared for a bit of a walk. The garden is massively popular and becomes rammed almost instantly, so be prepared to brave crowds.
04. Le Jardin Secret
Jardin Majorelle too busy? Never fear, Marrakech is home to another lesser known, but equally picturesque garden. Le Jardin Secret isn't quite a secret, but it does feel like a haven of peace away from the bustling alleyways of the souk. An elegant botanical garden, carefully tended plants species reside harmoniously against a backdrop of striking Moroccan architecture. The plot is split into two distinct gardens, the Islamic Garden and Exotic Garden, and has roots all the way back to the Saadian dynasty. There's also a cafe on site, though prices are steep by Marrakech standards. The garden is open from 09:30am - 6pm, and entrance tickets can be bought on arrival, at 100 dirhams for foreigners, and 50 for Moroccan citizens and under 24 year olds.
05. Stay in a Riad
One of my favourite things about visiting Morocco is staying in a riad. These hotels are often converted houses or palaces centred around an interior courtyard. They offer a genuine Moroccan experience, and are renowned for warm hospitality, service, and incredible home-cooked cuisine. They're also often wonderful way to immerse yourself in traditional Moroccan architecture. You'll find riads to suit all price ranges, from simple budget options to lavish luxury.
Mid-Range
06. Discover Local Cuisine
If you're anything like me, food is a massive part of your travel experience. And Marrakech is an incredible destination for it! The cuisine is all about rich, complex flavours and spicing, with a focus on slow-cooked, fall-apart meats, and crisp, flaky pastries. A tagine is a traditional Moroccan stew usually made with meat or lamb on a bed of rice and a vegetables, and a must try when in Marrakech. For pastries, try briouats, fried pastry filled with meat or cheese, and bastilla, a savoury pie filled with chicken.
07. See Sunset from a Rooftop Restaurant
If there's one thing Marrakech does well, it's rooftops. The city is full of great rooftop spots, from casual cafes to vibrant late-night restaurants and bars, all offering iconic views out over the city. One of the most iconic is Nomad, and a personal favourite is Rooftop Dardar. They tend to be on the pricier side (lets call it the view tax), but for a special meal or late night cocktails, it's worth it. Book in advance to guarantee a table, and aim for sunset to watch the sun set - and the party get started.
08. El Badi Palace
Whilst many of the sights of Marrakech are teeming with tourists, leaving very little room to manoeuvre, or indeed even enjoy what you're seeing, El Badi Palace tends to be refreshingly quiet. Built in the 16th century, the sprawling complex was once a great symbol of the Sultan's wealth and power, and even the home of his harem. The Palace is sadly largely in ruins now, but the surviving structures still provide a fascinating look into Marrakech's past. The palace is open from 9am to 5pm. Tickets are 100 dirham for foreigners, and 20 dirham for residents.
09. Catch a Belly Dancing Show
Morocco is renowned for it's belly dancing shows, and Marrakech is one of the very best places to catch one. In fact, you'll find countless restaurants in the city put on nightly shows to accompany dinner. Upscale, legendary Marrakech spot Comptoir Darna is the most iconic - but expect prices to reflect it's fame. Also keep in mind that shows often start from 9/10pm onwards. If you're like me and like to eat you dinner at 7, and be in bed by 10, it's a late night! (P.S. please excuse the grainy picture, I haven't been to a show in recent years so it's an old photo!)
10. Bahia Palace
Hopefully you're not tired out by Moroccan historical sights and architecture at this point, because I've got one last spot for you. Bahia Palace is modern by Marrakech standards, having been built in the 19th century by Grand Vizier Si Moussa. It once served as a royal residence but is now open to the public, to marvel at the extravagant interiors, intricate zouak wood painting, and ornate marquetry. There are a number of rooms and courtyards to explore, each with their own distinct architectural style.
The entrance fee is 70 dirham, and the palace is open from 8am to 5pm. As with most of these sights, I'd recommend visiting as close to opening as possible to avoid the crowds. Consider combining with a trip to El Badi Palace just a few minutes walk around the corner.
A few honourable mentions? Grab coffee in aesthetic surrounds at Bacha Coffee, take a wander around opulent luxury hotel La Mamounia, or head out to the Agafay desert for a day trip.
I hope this guide on the best things to do in Marrakech has been helpful. If you're looking for more Marrakech tips, head to my Marrakech destination hub for all my posts on the city. And if you have any other suggestions for things to do in Marrakech, please pop them in the comments below!
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Jarjeer Mule and donkey sanctuary
Beautiful, inspiring photos. Thanks for all your useful information. I’m off to Marrakech in March and happy to see another woman travelling safely in thus city.
If you pay half to three quarters of the first price quoted by vendors in the Souk then you are likely to be royally ripped-off.
Been lots of times and almost always pay faf far less than that.
Most Brits start too high with their first offer, so pay more than they need to.
Bear in mind that they want to sell to you, just as much as you want to buy something.
Keep it friendly and great prices can be negotiated.